Reorganization of citizens' money to create a new basic security (SGB II)

The Bundestag approved the draft law to transform citizens' money into a new basic security in a roll-call vote. According to the government, the aim of the reform is a welfare state with clearer rules in which state support is more closely linked to the personal responsibility and participation of those receiving benefits. A central component of the citizen's benefit reform is the stronger obligation for those entitled to benefits who are able to work to take up work. In the future, they should use their labor to the maximum extent that is reasonable. Single recipients of basic security in particular should generally be required to take up full-time employment if this is necessary and reasonable to end their need for assistance. At the same time, placement in work or training should be given priority over other measures. However, qualification and further training remain important instruments for long-term integration into the labor market - especially for people under 30. In the future, stricter requirements will also apply to parents in basic security. As soon as childcare is guaranteed, they should generally start working from the child's 14th month of life or take part in measures to integrate them into the labor market. In addition, the reform includes changes to assets and housing costs. The previous waiting period for protective assets should be eliminated; Instead, the savings assets are staggered according to age. In addition, the costs covered for accommodation and rent will be more limited in order to reduce expenses for basic security. Another focus of the reform is stricter sanctions in the citizens' money system. Anyone who cancels a funding measure or does not apply for proposed positions must expect benefit cuts of up to 30 percent of the standard requirement for three months. Reductions are also provided for repeated failure to show up for appointments at the job center. In extreme cases, the entitlement to basic social security benefits can be completely eliminated. At the same time, however, the protective mechanisms for people with mental illnesses should be strengthened. The federal government's bill was approved with 320 votes. 268 MPs voted no, there were two abstentions from Jan Dieren and Ruppert Stüwe (both SPD). There were several motions from the opposition factions regarding this item on the agenda, but they were not voted on by name.