The planned abolition of broadcasting fees in France is getting closer. After the National Assembly, the Senate, as the second chamber of parliament, also voted for a corresponding article as part of the review of the supplementary budget. On the night of Tuesday, 196 senators voted in favor of the first reading, 147 voted against.
In the future, public broadcasting is to be financed, among other things, by part of the VAT. However, the Senate only wants this regulation to apply until the end of 2024. The government should come up with a “genuine reform” of the sector during the transition period, accompanied by an appropriate allocation of funds, an accepted amendment said.
The broadcasting fee in France has so far been 138 euros per year. It is due for all households that own a television. President Emmanuel Macron had announced the abolition of the fee during the election campaign. He wanted to counteract the rising cost of living and increase people’s purchasing power.
