BERLIN — In a move that has sparked widespread outrage among German labor unions, Finance Minister Christian Lindner is proposing sweeping reforms to health and welfare benefits for individuals on sick leave.

The changes would end telephonic sick notes, requiring those unable to work due to illness or injury to seek in-person medical certifications. Critics argue this will burden an already strained healthcare system while unfairly punishing the vulnerable.

"This is a shameful attempt to treat people who are genuinely ill as shirkers," said Lars Klingbeil, former economics minister under Angela Merkel and now a vocal opponent of the new conservative administration. "It's clear that Lindner is more concerned with balancing budgets than supporting those in need."

The proposed measures have not only drawn criticism from unions but also from medical professionals who warn about the potential for increased workload on overburdened healthcare providers.

"We simply report," added an anonymous source within the German finance department. "But one must wonder how these policies will impact those least equipped to defend themselves."

A single mother working multiple jobs collapsed at home with a severe asthma attack and had no means of obtaining an in-person sick note.

"Who are they helping?" asked a bystander, shaking her head as she watched yet another demonstration outside the finance ministry. "They say it's about efficiency, but all I see is heartlessness."