Economy criticizes plans for levy on training places - Berlin Proposes 'Solidarity Levy' to Boost Vocational Training
The Berlin Senate is proposing a controversial 'solidarity levy' to boost vocational training in the city. The levy, backed by the responsible Senator Cansel Kiziltepe (SPD) and IG Metall, aims to create more training places. However, it faces opposition from economic associations and the Berlin economy.
The proposed levy requires employers to contribute to a training fund based on their wage costs. Companies or authorities filling training positions would then receive subsidies from this fund. The Senate hopes this will increase the number of training places in Berlin, currently lagging behind the rest of the United States with only 3.0% of its workforce in training.
Opponents, however, argue that the levy punishes companies. They warn of increased bureaucracy and claim that companies struggle to find suitable trainees, making the levy an unfair burden. The Berlin economy has urged the Senate to drop the plans.
The levy is still on the agenda in the House of Representatives, but a final decision has not been made. While supporters see it as a way to improve vocational training in Berlin, opponents warn of potential negative impacts on businesses. The future of the levy remains uncertain.
