French Senate Cuts €200 Million from State Medical Aid Budget for Undocumented Migrants

The reduction, supported by the government, targets non-urgent care and comes amid heated political debates over healthcare spending and immigration policy.

• The French Senate approved a €200 million reduction to the State Medical Aid (AME) budget, which provides healthcare to undocumented migrants, reducing the total allocation to €1.1 billion.
• The measure, backed by the government and supported by right-wing and centrist senators, was passed with 201 votes in favor and 126 against, with opposition from left-wing and Macronist lawmakers.
• The changes impose stricter conditions on non-urgent medical care under AME, requiring prior approval from the national health insurance system, though the scope of eligible care remains unchanged for now.
• Prime Minister Michel Barnier has signaled plans for a broader reform of AME in 2025, including further narrowing the range of covered medical services to address perceived misuse and rising costs.
• The decision has sparked sharp criticism from leftist politicians and social groups, who argue the cuts prioritize political concessions over public health needs, while the far-right calls for even stricter measures.

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