Schnieder accuses traffic light coalition of anti-business course - CDU's Schnieder vows to scrap Rhineland-Palatinate's climate law if elected

Gordon Schnieder, the CDU's lead candidate in Rhineland-Palatinate, has attacked the state's climate policies as harmful to business. He claims the 2040 climate protection law is a 'green ideological project' that weakens the economy. His criticism comes ahead of the March election, where he has pledged to scrap the legislation if his party wins.

Schnieder accused the ruling traffic light coalition of pursuing anti-my business policies. He singled out the SPD for sending negative signals, pointing to higher costs, increased state intervention, and proposed tax rises. His remarks suggest a sharp divide over economic priorities in the upcoming vote.

The current government has already rolled out measures under the 2020 Climate Protection Act. These include funding LED lighting upgrades in schools and nurseries, cutting energy use by 48% and saving 12.3 tons of CO₂ annually. Cities like Kaiserslautern are also receiving support for greenhouse gas-neutral heating by 2026. Additionally, loans and subsidies have helped modernise and build climate-friendly housing in Mainz, Neustadt, Wittlich, and other areas.

Schnieder insists 2026 must be a year of economic recovery. He argues the state government has neglected business growth, focusing instead on climate regulations. If elected, his party would dismantle the climate law, marking a major shift in policy direction.

The CDU's stance sets up a clear choice for voters in March. A win for Schnieder would mean reversing key climate measures, including funding for energy-efficient upgrades and green heating projects. The outcome will determine whether the state continues its current environmental policies or shifts focus toward economic revival.