CSU Bundestag member Florian Dorn has raised concerns regarding the potential persistence of the so-called “Rente mit 63” (retirement at age 63 without deductions), prompted by recent statements from several state premiers.
Speaking to the newspaper “Die Welt,” Dorn, who was appointed alternate chairman of the Pension Commission, stated that the coalition is unified in its goal to implement the pension reform. This reform includes the abolition of the privilege allowing certain long-term contributors to receive a tax-exempt pension. He added that this measure alone currently generates additional costs approaching ten billion euros each year.
Dorn stressed that eliminating this waiver is a core component of the reform needed to stabilize the statutory pension insurance system. He argued that ensuring the pension system is robust and generationally fair is in everyone’s best interest.
However, Dorn criticized several regional leaders, including those within the CDU, for announcing intentions to block the elimination of the tax-exempt “Rente mit 63.” He pointed out that the CDU presidium, which includes CDU state premiers, had already explicitly welcomed the pension reform in June. He expressed confidence that these state premiers do not genuinely wish to jeopardize the long-term stabilization and strengthening of the statutory pension insurance system.
The pension expert also expressed skepticism that state premiers could successfully block the cancellation of the Rente mit 63 in the Bundesrat (Federal Council). “It is probable that the abolition of the pension for particularly long-term contributors will not require the consent of the Bundesrat,” Dorn noted, highlighting that the initial introduction of the “Rente mit 63” did not necessitate such consent. Ultimately, however, the final outcome will depend on which elements are bundled into the draft bill proposed by the Ministry of Social Affairs. Only then will it be clear what measures are subject to approval.
Dorn issued a strong warning about the consequences should the “Rente mit 63” be maintained. He predicted that keeping the system intact would severely compromise both the stabilization of contribution rates and the overall development of pensions over the next two decades. In his view, this would undermine the entire reform framework. The billions of euros currently lacking in the pension fund each year would then have to be borne by younger generations-who face increasing burdens due to demographic changes-as well as by current pensioners who do not benefit from that specific tax privilege.
