The contentious issue of the training fee, which has sparked significant debate between the CDU and SPD, is set to move forward as both parties remain committed to its implementation. The fee will be established if an additional 2,000 training positions are not created by the end of the year, as confirmed by the leaders of both factions in the Berlin State Parliament. The proposed legislation is expected to be submitted to the parliament by early July, with the first reading anticipated in October, contingent on the availability of data regarding the additional training positions created during the first three quarters of the year. The SPD faction leader emphasized the urgency of not delaying any further. The training fee will require employers to contribute a specific amount, calculated based on their wage expenses, to a dedicated 'training fund.' This fund will provide financial assistance to employers who offer and fill training positions, thus alleviating some of the costs associated with training young individuals. The discussion surrounding this initiative has been intense. Sebastian Stietzel, the President of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Industry, recently called for the proposed legislation to be halted. He argues that the fee could further burden businesses already facing economic challenges. The Berlin Senator for Labor and Social Affairs has criticized employers for not generating enough training positions, reiterating that a draft law for the fee is already prepared. The ongoing discourse reflects a growing concern about the state of vocational training in the region. In response to the senator's announcement, the Mayor of Berlin expressed skepticism, indicating that it is not the right time to implement a training levy that could impose additional financial strain on businesses during a period of economic uncertainty. However, the CDU and SPD had previously agreed in their coalition contract to create a minimum of 2,000 permanent training positions. If this goal is not met, the introduction of the training fee will proceed as stipulated in their agreement. This development underscores the coalition's commitment to enhancing vocational training opportunities while navigating the complexities of economic pressures on businesses.