BUENOS AIRES, May 23 – Argentina’s lower house on Thursday approved a bill considerably limiting the president’s ability to issue decrees with the force of law, a move likely to intensify political tensions and reshape the balance of power. The legislation passed with 138 votes in favor, 102 against, and six abstentions, sending it to the senate for consideration.
The bill aims to curb what opponents describe as the overuse of presidential decrees by President Javier Milei‘s administration, particularly in areas requiring congressional approval. The measure restricts the scope and duration of such decrees, possibly forcing the executive branch to negotiate more directly with Congress on key policy initiatives, including economic reforms and legislative changes. This shift could complicate Milei’s ambitious agenda to overhaul Argentina’s economy and address a deepening financial crisis, while bolstering the role of the legislative branch in governance.
The approved text establishes that presidential decrees can no longer be used to circumvent laws passed by Congress, and limits their application to matters of urgency and necessity. Decrees will also be subject to stricter scrutiny and have a shorter lifespan,requiring legislative ratification to remain in effect.
Opposition lawmakers hailed the bill’s passage as a defense of democratic institutions and a check on executive overreach.”This is a victory for democracy,” said Deputy Cecilia Moreau of the Unidad Popular coalition. “It reaffirms the essential role of Congress in lawmaking and prevents the president from governing by decree.”
Though, members of Milei’s La Libertad Avanza party condemned the bill as an attempt to obstruct the president’s reform efforts and destabilize the government. “This is a clear attack on the president’s ability to govern and implement the changes that argentina desperately needs,” stated Deputy Javier Milei.
The bill now moves to the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain. A vote is expected in the coming weeks, and the outcome will significantly impact the future of governance in Argentina. The debate underscores the deep political divisions within the country and the challenges facing Milei as he seeks to implement his radical economic agenda.
