On Thursday, October 1st, the government will present the first draft of its finance bill, outlining plans for public spending and taxation for the coming year. Estelle Mercier, a member of the Socialist Party (PS) and representing the department of Meurthe-et-Moselle, has criticized the draft, arguing that it does not provide enough resources to support public policies. "It is not the most disadvantaged who should make efforts," she said, emphasizing that the burden of funding should not fall on those with the least financial means. Mercier, who leads the PS on budget matters, stated that the current draft is not acceptable. She called for a revision that would better reflect the needs of the population and ensure that public services are adequately funded. Her comments come amid ongoing debates about how to balance economic challenges with the need to maintain social protections and support for vulnerable groups. In addition to the finance bill, Mercier has also focused on another legislative initiative aimed at combating sexual and gender-based violence. She praised the bill for its potential to bring about a "real change in perspective regarding the voices of victims." This legislation seeks to address the systemic issues that contribute to such violence and to ensure that victims are heard and supported in legal and social systems. Mercier's criticisms highlight the broader political tensions around fiscal policy and social welfare in France. As the government prepares to present its financial plans, the debate over how to fund essential services and protect vulnerable populations continues to be a central issue in national politics.