Major Changes Hit France in June 2025: What You Need to Know

France Prepares for June 2025 Changes: TV Channels, Cigarette Prices, and More. France is bracing for a series of changes set to take effect in June 2025, impacting various aspects of daily life. A significant alteration involves the renumbering of television channels. Viewers will need to adjust their channel selections, with France 4 replacing Canal+ on channel 4 and LCP replacing C8 on channel 8. The changes are part of a broader effort to streamline channel numbering. "The changes are designed to improve clarity and consistency for viewers," says a spokesperson for the French broadcasting authority. In addition to the channel changes, the price of cigarettes is set to increase, impacting smokers' budgets. Brands like Marlboro and Philip Morris are among those affected. Meanwhile, changes to the RSA (Revenu de Solidarité Active) system will require recipients to prove at least 15 hours of weekly activity. This measure, already in place for several months, will now include sanctions for non-compliance. "The sanctions will be detailed in the official journal during June," explains a government official. However, there is some positive news: The price of gas is expected to drop by around 5% between May and June. This is according to the Commission de Régulation de l'Énergie (CRE). On the other hand, RATP fines will increase, with those caught traveling without a ticket on the Metro or RER facing fines of at least €70, up from €50. Bus and tramway fines will also increase, from €5 to at least €15. Finally, a new initiative will allow people to recover money by returning glass bottles, with 20 cents for larger containers and 10 cents for smaller ones. This program, currently in four regions, aims to improve recycling and offer financial incentives. The changes taking place in June 2025 will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the lives of many French citizens.