Hessen's 2025 Budget Proposal Faces Sharp Criticism Over Cuts and Priorities

The proposed €38 billion budget emphasizes security and education but draws opposition over austerity measures and municipal funding reductions.

The Hessen state government plans to allocate €38.09 billion in expenditures for 2025, with a projected deficit of €1.33 billion and €670 million in new debt.
Significant funding increases are directed toward inner security (€2.3 billion) and education, including 1,800 new school positions and 370 under the Startchancen program.
Opposition parties and unions criticize austerity measures, including a delayed pay raise for civil servants, which is expected to save €180 million but has sparked protests.
Municipal leaders and opposition members argue the budget underfunds local governments, with €400 million less allocated than anticipated in the Kommunalen Finanzausgleich.
The budget's approval is scheduled for March, with debates highlighting tensions over spending priorities, debt levels, and the state’s approach to economic modernization.