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French Assembly Rejects ‘ZucmanWealth Tax, Pushing 2026 Budget Vote Into Mid‑November

Following legal warnings, Socialists demand alternative plans to raise billions from the richest.

Overview

  • Lawmakers voted 228–172 against a 2% minimum levy on net wealth above €100 million and also rejected the Socialist ‘light’ version of a 3% tax above €10 million with exemptions for innovative and family firms.
  • Government figures argued any levy touching business assets would harm investment and face constitutional censure, with a Conseil d’État opinion read in the chamber judging a PS amendment unconstitutional.
  • Socialist leaders said they will not back the budget without replacement measures and pressed the prime minister for at least €10 billion in revenue from top fortunes, citing options like restoring the ISF or tightening the Dutreil regime.
  • The vote on the revenue section of the 2026 budget was postponed, with the finance committee scheduling it for 14–16 November, prolonging uncertainty over the package.
  • Separately, the right narrowed a holdings‑tax provision, while the presidential camp, LR and the RN maintained opposition to new wealth levies despite polling that shows strong public support.