The German government has announced stricter regulations for recipients of Bürgergeld, the country's welfare program.

Under the new rules, beneficiaries must accept jobs with commutes of up to three hours daily and can face immediate 30% benefit cuts for refusing suitable work.

Job centers will now search for employment opportunities within a 50-kilometer radius of recipients' homes.

The changes aim to address labor shortages and boost economic growth.

Finance Minister Christian Lindner defended the measures as fair to working citizens, while some coalition members expressed concerns about their effectiveness.

The reforms are part of a broader initiative to stimulate Germany's sluggish economy and increase workforce participation.