Overview
- In a named vote, 319 MPs backed the package, 225 opposed and 53 abstained, delivering Chancellor Friedrich Merz an absolute majority from CDU/CSU and SPD votes.
- Core measures fix the statutory pension level at 48% through 2031, expand parental credits (Mütterrente), strengthen occupational pensions and introduce an “Aktivrente” allowing up to €2,000 a month tax‑free for those working past retirement age.
- Die Linke abstained as announced, a stance that eased passage procedurally and prompted sharp criticism from other opposition parties.
- Seven Union lawmakers voted no and two abstained, with leaders of the Junge Gruppe warning of heavy long‑term costs for younger generations and citing figures such as €120 billion in the 2030s.
- The legislation now goes to the Bundesrat on 19 December and, if approved, could take effect on 1 January 2026, while a Rentenkommission is slated to deliver wider reform options by mid‑2026.