Greens politician Ricarda Lang criticized the savings measures planned by the federal government concerning parental allowance (Elterngeld). Speaking on the Politico Berlin Playbook podcast, Lang argued that such cuts are the wrong approach, especially during a time when society desires more people to opt for childbearing and family life. While acknowledging the necessity of reforms within the social system, she stressed that these changes must be equitable, noting that families should not always be the ones disproportionately affected.
Looking at previous cuts, Lang also expressed reservations regarding reductions to parental allowance previously enacted under Family Minister Lisa Paus (Greens) within the “traffic light” coalition, stating that even at that time, she believed parental allowance should not have been the initial point of reform. However, she conceded that the previous adjustment-lowering the taxable annual income threshold from 300,000 to 175,000 euros for couples-was likely the most equitable option if reforms in that area were absolutely required, as it only impacted higher-income couples.
Currently, Financial Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) has stipulated the savings in parental allowance amounted to 350 million euros for the year 2027 in the federal budget outlines. The Ministry of Family Affairs is expected to present a proposal on how these savings will be implemented by Wednesday.
