The Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, could soon opt for the use ofarticle 49.3 of the Constitution or to the adoption of the budget by orderin order to pass the 2026 budget. The government indicated that this decision, crucial for the implementation of public policies, will be made between this Friday and next Tuesday.
The implications of choosing between Article 49.3 and an ordinance
Invoking Article 49.3 allows the government to to pass a text without a full vote in the National Assemblywhile exposing the bill to a motion of censure. This procedure, often used to expedite the adoption of laws deemed priorities, could once again be employed.
The alternative, adoption by decree, would allow the government to implement the budget quicklybut also requires precise legislative framework and parliamentary approval within a set timeframe.
An announcement is imminent.
For several weeks, the examination of the 2026 budget has been closely followed, particularly due to tensions within the majority and debates on the country's financial priorities. The anticipation surrounding Sébastien Lecornu's decision reflects the political and media pressure which accompanies this key step in the budgetary procedure.
The government is expected to clarify its chosen path in the coming days, and discussions within the National Assembly could determine the final timetable for adoption.
