Due to a lack of government,Parliament cannot proceed with the examination of the bill aimed at extending this system,much appreciated by the French with meal vouchers,until 2026.
Will we still be able to use restaurant vouchers for shopping in 2025? Provoked by the left allied with the National Rally, the fall of the government on Wednesday 4 December caused an earthquake whose aftershocks are just beginning to be felt on the French economy. By censoring Michel Barnier’s team, opposition deputies, for example, caused a setback in the budgets of millions of families and granted, at the same time, an unexpected victory, at least temporary, to restaurateurs.
Last November, deputies adopted a bill aimed at extending until 2025 the exemption for the use of food stamps for all food products established starting from 2022.Objective of the text brought forward by the deputy (right-wing Republican ) Anne -Laure Blin: allow the 5.4 million French people who benefit from restaurant vouchers to use them “for the purchase of food products that are not directly consumable”like pasta or flour, next year, and not just for products for immediate consumption. A way to support the purchasing power of the French, while they massively support this enlargement born in the heart of the inflationary crisis.“According to a study carried out by the National Commission for Food Stamps (CNTR) in March 2024, 96% of food stamp beneficiaries declared themselves “in favor” of extending the exemption”thus cites the examination of the motivations of the text.
Supported by the various political groups, the bill was adopted unanimously by the deputies, who took the prospect to extend the system until 31 December 2026. And this, “so as not to have to vote again next year for an extension of this system if a systemic reform of food stamps had not come into force”. For its part, the government supported an extension, while saying “unfavorable to sustainability”. This was stated by the Secretary of State for Consumer Protection, Laurence Garnier “wisdom of the Assembly”but he is in favor of a profound reform of meal vouchers.
Suspension of work
Approved by the National Assembly, the bill then passed to the Senate, were it should have been examined as soon as possible by the Social Affairs Commission.“We are faced with a short timeframe: the exemption expires on 31 December, the text must thus complete its legislative process quickly”warned Laurence Garnier to the Assembly. However, government censors have blocked the examination of the text, which is not expected to resume before December 11th. “subject to the appointment of a new government”.
time is thus running out to complete parliamentary work, while the head of state has not yet appointed Michel barnier’s successor. He will then have to form his team and the parliamentary shuttle will have to be completed on time. “If nothing happens you will go back to the old days,you will buy products such as fruit and vegetables,sandwiches,ready meals,but you will no longer be able to buy flour,rice and dried pasta”they confirmed to Franceinfo colleagues Romain Vidal,for the CNTR. If the text is not voted on in time, the extension could be decided with a little delay. But, if necessary, the French will have to give up restaurant vouchers to make daily purchases. Enough to satisfy restaurateurs, who are unfavorable to the possibility of using these titles elsewhere than in their premises.
How could changes to meal vouchers impact the French economy and society?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Economic Expert on the Future of Meal Vouchers in France
Time.news Editor (T.N.E): Welcome to our special segment on economic policies in France. Today, we have Dr. Lucie Martin,an economist specializing in social welfare programs. Dr. Martin, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Lucie Martin (D.L.M): Thank you for having me. it’s a pleasure to discuss such an vital topic.
T.N.E: Let’s dive right into it. Recently, we’ve seen a important pause in the parliamentary process due to a lack of government.This has left many wondering about the future of meal vouchers in France. Can you shed some light on the current situation?
D.L.M: Certainly. The meal voucher system, wich has gained considerable popularity among the French population, was set to be extended until 2026. Though, due to the current parliamentary deadlock, legislative processes are stuck, and this proposal is at risk.
T.N.E: Why is the meal voucher system so critical for the French?
D.L.M: Meal vouchers serve as both a financial relief and a social benefit. They allow employees to access nutritious meals while helping businesses in the restaurant and retail sectors. For many French citizens, these vouchers are a crucial part of thier daily lives, making meals more affordable.
T.N.E: Given this background, what do you think will happen if the extensions are not approved?
D.L.M: if Parliament cannot process the extension, we may see a swift reduction in the use of these vouchers by 2025.This could led to increased financial strain for families and a downturn in sectors reliant on meal vouchers. The uncertainty could also affect consumer confidence.
T.N.E: What are the potential political implications of this situation?
D.L.M: The failure to extend this system could spark public outcry. Given the popularity of meal vouchers, it might rally citizens against the current government. This could further complicate the political landscape, especially as we approach future elections.
T.N.E: It truly seems that the situation is quite precarious.What should the government prioritize moving forward to address these issues?
D.L.M: First and foremost, the establishment of a functioning government is crucial. Once that is achieved, they need to ensure that the extension of the meal voucher system becomes a priority. Engaging with stakeholders, including businesses and employees, can help create a consensus on how to improve or modify the system rather than letting it lapse.
T.N.E: Thank you, Dr. Martin. Your insights are invaluable as we navigate this uncertain landscape regarding meal vouchers and their future in France. any final thoughts?
D.L.M: Just that the conversation around social welfare policies is vital, especially in challenging economic times. We should prioritize dialog and solutions that support our communities.
T.N.E: Absolutely. Thank you again for your time, and we hope to keep the conversation going as developments unfold.
D.L.M: Thank you for having me.