Dispute over German ticket pricing - States criticize Federal Government for their stance
The Germany ticket, introduced in May 2023 and now used by around 14 million people, is at the centre of ongoing negotiations among German federal states (Länder) and the federal government. The key issue in these negotiations is finding a solution to offset the expected additional costs at transport companies beyond the current funding of three billion euros per year.
The federal government, under the leadership of Olaf Scholz, has stated that it will not provide any additional funds beyond the promised 1.5 billion euros. This has led to a potential financing gap of 800 million euros by 2026, according to estimates.
To address this issue, a plan suggests that countries might provide 1.5 billion euros annually for the Germany ticket from 2026 to 2030, contingent on the federal government securing 1.5 billion euros per year from 2026 to 2030. All German federal states have agreed to collectively provide this amount, establishing a long-term joint financing commitment.
However, not all state transport ministers are satisfied with this arrangement. North Rhine-Westphalia's transport minister, Oliver Krischer (Greens), has criticised the federal government for not relieving train customers and not being willing to cover the financing gap. Rhineland-Palatinate's transport minister, Katrin Eder (Greens), has also stated that a price increase is necessary due to the federal government's failure to keep its promises from the coalition agreement.
The price of the Germany ticket is set by the transport ministers' conference of the states, with the federal government as a guest. The current price, lower than previous subscriptions, has resulted in revenue losses. To address this, a draft resolution proposes a fixed price mechanism for the Germany ticket, adjustable from 2027 based on a cost index.
Saarland's transport minister, Petra Berg, has proposed a maximum price of 62 euros per month for the Germany ticket next year, while rumours suggest it may be between 62 to 64 euros per month. Brandenburg's transport minister, Detlef Tabbert, emphasizes the need for a reliable financial foundation for the Germany ticket.
The goal of the federal government, as stated by a spokesperson for Scholz, remains to provide long-term planning security for both public transport customers and transport companies with this mechanism. The SPD had advocated for price stability until 2029 in the coalition agreement, and the federal government's aim is to maintain the Germany ticket.
However, a significant price increase could make the ticket less attractive for many customers, raising concerns about the affordability and accessibility of public transport for a large number of people. The need for a high-quality and price-attractive public transport system with the Germany ticket requires a clear financing perspective.
In conclusion, the negotiations surrounding the Germany ticket are complex, with various stakeholders advocating for their respective positions. The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on the affordability and accessibility of public transport for millions of people in Germany.
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