“This Monday, at the National Assembly, a particularly significant moment occurred: the approval, with the votes of the left, of a completely revised version of the “revenue” part of the 2025 Social Security budget. An event of capital importance that provoked contrasting reactions and marked a significant turning point in the French political landscape.
This amended text, which provides for increases in contributions that could reach 17 to 20 billion euros according to the deputies, was adopted at first reading by 126 votes “for” against 98 “against”. A victory for the left, which immediately rejoiced at this success, seeing in this vote a new defeat for President Emmanuel Macron and his government.
In a press release, the LFI group welcomed this “incredible” vote, calling it a failure for the government in place. For their part, the representatives of the National Rally, although fundamentally opposed to certain measures, chose to abstain so as not to compromise the continuation of the debates. A strategic choice that underlines the importance of the current issues.
The evening then saw the deputies begin examining the “expenditure” part of the text. Crucial decisions were taken, such as restricting the reimbursement of Covid tests without a medical prescription, or the removal of a controversial government mechanism linked to the reimbursement of certain medical procedures. However, with more than 500 amendments still awaiting examination, time is running out.
Faced with this situation, PS deputy Jérôme Guedj called for a reorganization of the order of debates, highlighting the most controversial points of the bill. An approach aimed at ensuring an informed and in-depth debate on essential issues such as the freezing of retirement pensions.
The approval of the revenue by the left was described as a surprise by many observers, particularly because of past opposition in the Social Affairs Committee. This decision, which aims to increase contributions on certain incomes, clearly illustrates the current political divergences and the weight of budgetary issues.
The new taxes and contributions approved by the deputies have provoked contrasting reactions within the political class. While the left welcomed the reform of the “soda tax”, some members of the government coalition criticized a text emptied of its meaning, believing that it affected the middle classes more than the very wealthy.
The day ended with a symbolic victory for the left on the sensitive issue of pension reform. Amendments were adopted to cancel the increase in the legal retirement age, thus marking a significant first step in this complex debate.
Despite these advances, it is important to remember that these votes are not final, as the bill still has to go through many stages before being adopted. The government’s likely use of Article 49.3 highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding this crucial issue for the future of Social Security in France.
In conclusion, this day at the National Assembly was full of twists and turns, highlighting the political divisions and strategic issues that are driving the debate around the Social Security budget. An important moment in French political life that calls for in-depth reflection on the choices and directions to be taken to guarantee a solid and fair social protection system for all.”