Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s Minister-President, Manuela Schwesig (SPD), welcomed the end of the relief premium while simultaneously calling for a comprehensive “relief package” from the federal government. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, she stated, “It is good that the relief premium is off the table. It was not a viable instrument for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern”. She pointed out that many employers, including small and medium-sized businesses, social providers, and public services, would have been unable to pay it.
Shwesig now stressed that the focus must shift to a “real overall package”. Key components of this package must include reduced energy prices, noticeable financial relief for smaller and middle-income earners, and “an income tax reform that truly deserves the name”. Furthermore, she insisted that any upcoming social reforms must be designed in a manner that is both “compatible and just”.
She also expressed satisfaction that the demand for an overall package, involving social partners, has been recognized. However, she was clear that state governments must also be included in the process. “The Minister-Presidents must be involved” she asserted, advocating for a special Minister-President Conference. She emphasized that the states must share in the consequences and must be centrally involved in decision-making. To that end, she told the “Rheinische Post” that she expected the Chancellor to move forward with this step immediately.
