NGG union demands mobility allowance for German commuters

The food and beverage union NGG is calling for increased financial support for commuters in the Lippe and Märkischer Kreis regions of Germany due to rising fuel and transportation costs. Citing statistics from the Federal Employment Agency, the union highlights the significant number of people traveling across district borders for work.

In Lippe, approximately 33,510 people commute into the district, while 50,570 residents commute out. In Märkischer Kreis, the total number of commuters crossing district lines reaches nearly 78,000. The union argues that long commutes act as a financial burden, particularly for low-income earners who rely on cars due to a lack of alternatives.

To alleviate this pressure, the NGG is advocating for a mobility allowance of 17 cents per kilometer. This payment would be distributed regardless of income level, either as a direct payout or through monthly income tax deductions. Additionally, the union is urging employers to take more responsibility for travel costs, including contributions toward the Deutschland-Ticket.