Overview

• The GKV-Spitzenverband filed suit at the Landessozialgericht Nordrhein-Westfalen in Essen against the Federal Republic, represented by the Bundesamt für Soziale Sicherung.
• The claim seeks roughly €10 billion per year, arguing the federal contribution was €108.48 per recipient per month in 2022 versus an estimated need of €311.45.
• GKV leaders call the practice unlawful and contend it raises employer labor costs and reduces net pay for employees.
• Financial pressure persists with contribution rates at about 17.1–17.5 percent and a projected €4 billion GKV deficit for 2026, while a €2.3 billion federal loan offers only short-term relief.
• In parallel, Health Minister Nina Warken is promoting a cheaper Basistarif with paid add-ons and a stronger primary‑care gatekeeper model, drawing SoVD warnings about a two‑class system as details remain under expert review.