Germany Proposes Long-Term Expansion of Deutschlandticket Program
SPD and Green Party push to extend funding past 2025 and introduce free travel for children, aiming to enhance affordability and accessibility.
- The Deutschlandticket, introduced in May 2023, provides nationwide public transport access for €49 per month, with a price increase to €58 planned for January 2025.
- A new proposal by SPD and Green Party seeks to remove the 2025 funding expiration and ensure long-term financial support for the program.
- The proposal includes a family-friendly feature allowing free travel for children and teenagers, addressing public demand for improved affordability.
- Bund and Länder currently contribute €1.5 billion each annually to offset revenue losses for transport companies, but this funding is only secured through 2025.
- Discussions with the CDU/CSU are ongoing, with both sides acknowledging challenges in securing future funding amid broader budget planning constraints.