French National Assembly Narrowly Approves Social Security Budget Amid Political Challenges

On December 9, 2025, the French National Assembly narrowly adopted the 2026 Social Security financing bill (PLFSS) with a vote of 247 in favor and 234 against, marking a tense victory for Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu. This close vote underscored the government's fragile position, as Lecornu lacks a parliamentary majority and is unable to invoke article 49.3 of the Constitution, which would have allowed the budget's passage without a vote. Remarkably, 63 of the 69 Socialist Party deputies supported the bill following negotiations led by party leader Boris Vallaud, signaling a rare cross-party compromise.

The budget also saw significant backing from the Ecologist group, which had previously been divided but ultimately joined forces with the Socialists, Macronists, and Les Républicains during the vote, with only the Insoumis and one deputy from Horizons opposing. The national health expenditure target (Ondam) was passed decisively at 259 votes to 64, reflecting broad consensus on healthcare spending.

Despite this milestone, considerable uncertainty remains about the budget’s journey. The Senate must now examine the PLFSS, with committee review on Wednesday and chamber debate on Friday, where senators typically prefer to reject or amend such measures. While the Senate might propose modifications, the National Assembly retains the ultimate authority, with adoption expected before the constitutional deadline of December 31.

Meanwhile, the broader State budget for 2026 faces even greater challenges. Having been rejected in its first reading by the National Assembly, it is now under Senate review, with a solemn vote scheduled for December 15. Given the government’s lack of majority support, experts expect potential recourse to the 49.3 mechanism to ensure passage, which could trigger a censure motion. A joint session of deputies and senators is planned for December 19 to negotiate the state budget further, with the possibility of a special law prior to year-end if negotiations falter.

The political context remains tense, compounded by the suspension of the 2023 pension reform, which threatens to worsen France’s social security deficit. This narrow approval of the PLFSS underscores the complex balancing act facing the government as it tries to secure social welfare funding while managing parliamentary divisions and fiscal constraints.