Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt of the CSU has begun advocating for a reduction of the standard rate within the Bürgergeld social benefit program. Speaking to “Focus,” the CSU politician stated that the program, which costs nearly €50 billion annually, holds the potential to make a significant contribution to fiscal consolidation.
Dobrindt maintains his conviction that substantial savings can be achieved that exceed current plans. According to the minister’s view, the current standard rate is too high, as its primary purpose should simply be to cover the minimum standard of living. He pointed to the significant cost increases resulting from the massive hikes implemented during the previous election period.
“I believe the standard rate is currently too high. After all, it is meant to cover the minimum existence and nothing beyond that,” the Interior Minister demanded, asserting that the current structure requires mandatory re-evaluation.
