Overview
- CDU social-wing deputy Monica Wüllner called for reinstating a wealth tax and tightening inheritance rules by closing loopholes that let the very rich minimize their bills.
- Hesse’s Minister-President Boris Rhein urged an end to the inheritance‑tax debate, warning that talk of higher levies creates uncertainty and hinders family‑business succession.
- Business advocates cautioned that Germany is already a high‑tax location, while inequality researchers pressed for action to shore up social cohesion.
- The SPD pushed for tougher taxation of large business inheritances with a minimum levy, higher personal allowances, and continued protection for owner‑occupied homes.
- Jens Spahn reignited the issue by tying rising wealth inequality to a review of inheritance rules and by pointing to an expected Karlsruhe ruling that could compel legislative changes.