Section 1: Economic aid

The State is responsible for the conduct of economic and social policy and the defence of employment. Nonetheless, subject to respect for the freedom of commerce and industry and the principle of equality of citizens before the law, the département may intervene in economic and social matters under the conditions set out in this chapter and in Article L. 3232-4.

The départements may award operating subsidies to the local structures of representative trade union organisations under conditions laid down by decree in the Conseil d’Etat. The organisations thus subsidised are required to submit a report to the departmental council detailing the use of the subsidy.