French Senate Approves Controversial “Rioters Pay” Bill

On 28 October 2026 the Senate voted 229-105 to pass a bill that would make participants in violent protests financially liable for property damage. Courts could order individuals to pay up to €10,000 and seize welfare benefits—including family allowances, housing assistance and the RSA—to recover compensation. The text now moves to the National Assembly.

France 24

The proposal originated after riots that followed Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory in May 2026 and gained urgency after nationwide unrest on 17 October 2026, which saw looting and arson, including an attack on the Limoges town hall. An accelerated parliamentary procedure was launched in August 2026, and the Senate’s Law Commission approved the draft on 21 October 2026.

France 24

• Maximum civil liability per person: €10,000 (? US$11,100).

France’s Rioters Pay bill could penalise peaceful protesters

• Benefits that could be seized: family allowances, housing assistance and the RSA.

Amnesty International

• Vote tally: 229 in favour, 105 against.

The Rio Times

The Senate’s Law Commission said the measure expands existing liability rules, which previously required proof of individual culpability.

The Local (France)

Rights groups and left-wing lawmakers argue the bill threatens protest rights. Green senator Melanie Vogel called it “collective punishment.” Amnesty International France warned that seizing benefits could push vulnerable families into poverty and that the amendment on expulsion of foreign nationals risks xenophobic rhetoric.

France 24

• “We must not give the impression that this bill would criminalise a passer-by or a peaceful protester,” — Olivier Bitz, Horizons party member

France 24

• “If passed, this bill would be a deeply regressive step,” — Nathalie Godard, Amnesty International France

France 24

• May 2026 – Riots after Champions League final spark initial draft.

France 24

• 31 August 2026 – Bill placed on agenda.

France 24

• 21 October 2026 – Senate Law Commission approves draft.

The Rio Times

• 28 October 2026 – Senate passes expanded bill.

The Rio Times

• Future – National Assembly must examine the text; no vote date set.

The Rio Times

Proponents say the bill shifts repair costs from taxpayers to those responsible. Critics contend it could deter lawful assembly, undermine the presumption of innocence, and disproportionately affect low-income families by targeting social benefits. The provision allowing rapid removal of online content that calls for “insurrection or taking up arms” also raises freedom-of-expression concerns.

France 24

The bill now awaits consideration by the National Assembly, where it could be amended or rejected. Law-makers have not announced a timetable. If passed, the legislation will still require review by France’s Constitutional Council before becoming law.

The Local (France)