Sanctions for citizens' money: Gifhorn's social association sounds the alarm!

Sanctions for citizens' money: Gifhorn's social association sounds the alarm!

Worrying trends are emerging in the discussion about basic security, which is currently making waves in politics. As the WAZ reported, the SoVD federal association and the Gifhorn district association warn of the negative consequences that changes in basic security could have for recipients of citizens' benefit. In particular, it is about the attractiveness for landlords to accommodate benefit recipients. Berko Härtel, spokesman for the German Social Association in Gifhorn, draws attention to the uncertainties that those affected are currently confronted with.

The current legal situation stipulates that housing costs will continue to be covered by the office. To date, there are no known cases of home loss due to sanctions in the Gifhorn district. But the fears are great. Employers may be hesitant to sign rental agreements with citizens' benefit recipients, which could lead to increasing homelessness. A circumstance that should not be ignored, because future regulations stipulate that if a job offer is rejected, benefits can be canceled by one month.

Risks from sanctions

Sanctions currently affect less than 1% of those receiving civil benefit. Nevertheless, the consequences are severe: the cuts start at 10% of the standard rate and can lead to complete cancellation. What is particularly explosive is that breaches of duty, such as failure to meet application deadlines, can lead to significant financial losses in the future. If three reporting deadlines are not met, there is a risk of massive cuts; for the fourth violation, even the complete withdrawal of benefits.

Alexandra Leonardelli, a practical example, received citizen's benefit for two years after reporting sick due to Corona and now works 20 hours in a lottery shop. Despite the positive change, she is worried about the new reform plans being discussed in the black-red coalition. She fears that the desired savings targets are unrealistic and that older people in particular could suffer from the new regulations. The fears are also illustrated by criticism from Yasmin Fahimi, head of the German Federation of Trade Unions, who spoke out against the negative portrayal of abuse of citizens' money.

Support measures and outlook

It is pleasing to note that the job center in Munich offers special support for vulnerable groups such as single parents. The introduction of a citizen's money app promises modernized, digital processing of applications. But the problem remains. The SoVD also takes action against unjustified sanctions, but appeals to social courts can take months and prolong the uncertainty for those affected.

In summary, it can be said that the challenges to basic security and citizen's benefit are extensive and could severely affect both recipients and landlords. As long as these discussions are ongoing, it remains to be seen which specific measures will ultimately be adopted and how they will affect the living situation of those affected. The pressure situation in the industry will therefore continue to be high and it is to be hoped that the reforms will ultimately benefit those in need of help.