French Government to Ease Budget Cuts on Departments After Protests

Prime Minister Michel Barnier announces significant reductions in financial demands on departments following threats to suspend welfare payments.

The original 2025 budget proposed a 5 billion euro reduction for local governments, with departments bearing 44% of the cuts.
Departments, particularly those led by right and center parties, threatened to halt RSA payments and care for unaccompanied minors if demands weren't reduced.
Prime Minister Barnier pledged to significantly lower the financial effort required from departments, acknowledging their unique economic challenges.
Key measures include a temporary increase in notary fees, adjustments to tax compensation, and extended timelines for pension contributions.
The government aims to introduce these changes during the Senate's budget discussions starting November 25.