New Delay for France’s unified solidarity allowance reform

13:15

The French government has announced another delay in the long-awaited reform of the Unified Solidarity Allowance (ASU), a major social welfare project initially promised by President Emmanuel Macron in 2018.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the reform, stating through his office that the proposal remains a priority. However, officials acknowledged that the draft law requires further revisions following recommendations from the Council of State, France’s highest administrative advisory body.

According to government representatives, discussions with social organizations, political groups, and labor partners have been ongoing for several months. Authorities explained that the text has temporarily been removed from the legislative agenda in order to allow additional consultations and adjustments before being presented again.

The reform aims to simplify France’s welfare system by merging several social benefits into a single allowance. Supporters argue that the measure could reduce administrative complexity and encourage employment by creating a more coherent assistance system. Critics, however, fear that vulnerable households could lose part of their financial support under the new structure.

Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon denied rumors that the reform had been abandoned, insisting that the administration remains determined to move forward. Officials emphasized that broader political consensus is still needed before the bill can proceed through Parliament.

The proposal has faced repeated delays since it was first introduced by Emmanuel Macron several years ago. Recent concerns raised by legal experts reportedly focused on the balance of authority between the national government and local administrations.

Anti-poverty organizations have also expressed concern about the project, warning that changes to the welfare system could negatively affect low-income families already facing economic difficulties.

As debates continue, the future of the reform remains uncertain, highlighting the political sensitivity of social welfare changes in France.