French Assembly Approves Overhaul of Paris, Lyon, Marseille Election Rules

The reform introduces direct mayoral elections and reduces the majority bonus, with the law now heading to the Senate for further review.

The French National Assembly has passed the key article of the 'PLM' reform, changing how mayors are elected in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.
The reform replaces the current system with two separate ballots: one for district councillors and one for the municipal council.
The majority bonus for the leading list is reduced from 50% to 25%, aiming to balance council seat distribution and enhance opposition representation.
The reform faces significant political division, with support from Macronists, LFI, and RN, but opposition from socialists, ecologists, communists, and parts of the right.
Local officials in Paris strongly oppose the changes, citing concerns about undermining local representation, while the law will now proceed to the Senate for further deliberation starting June 3, 2025.