After Parliament's unanimous adoption of a special law on December 23—following the joint committee's failure—the National Assembly resumes examination of the 2026 finance bill this Thursday. Deputies anticipate Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu invoking Article 49.3, as the PS engages in negotiations without committing to a favorable vote.
The special law, passed for the second consecutive year after the December 19 joint committee deadlock, ensures temporary financing. Debates now resume Thursday in the National Assembly's finance commission, but deputies across parties signal they will not approve the bill regardless of amendments. Lecornu, who pledged against using Article 49.3 for budgets, must choose between upholding that promise—risking no budget—or forcing passage of a disputed text.
The government seeks rapid accord with socialists practicing 'responsible opposition' to shape items like the activity premium and cuts to 4,000 teaching posts. Holiday-break talks included Minister Amélie de Montchalin with PS deputies Estelle Mercier and Philippe Brun, plus discussions involving PS leaders Olivier Faure and Boris Vallaud. Having gained concessions on the PLFSS pre-Christmas, PS plans to abstain at most.
Tuesday's four-hour Bercy session found common ground on holding tax and green fund but stalled on 12-15 billion euros in required savings. Lecornu prioritizes resolution ahead of March municipal elections. Friday's joint committee looms likely to fail, amplifying 49.3 prospects.
