This paper empirically analyses fiscal policy behavior in the European Union

(EU) Member States and assesses how it has changed during the recent pandemic

crisis compared to previous crisis situations. Based on panel estimations

the outcomes reveal that this time is different, both concerning the policy direction

as well as its magnitude. We confirm that fiscal policy has turned from

formally pro-cyclical/a-cyclical design prior to COVID-19 period to countercyclical

in the pandemic years. Moreover, this changeover is independent from

the status of the EU membership, as it affects both Old Member States (OMS)

and New Member States (NMS) likewise.