Rejection of the Amendment to the Sustainable Mobility Law: 176 Vote Opposition
The Sustainable Mobility Law, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at promoting eco-friendly transportation, continues its course in the Spanish legislative process. The law, which has been a subject of debate for some time, is currently in a state of flux, with the period for submitting partial revisions open until October 2, and potentially extending beyond that date.
Recently, the Popular Party (PP) presented an amendment to the law, which was met with a narrow defeat in the Congress of Deputies. The amendment, which was based on devolution, received 176 votes against and 168 in favour. Some critics, including environmental consultant Carlos Bravo, have noted that the PP's amendment did not make much sense in its current form.
The rejection of the PP's amendment presents an opportunity for the Government to open up to negotiation and improve the Sustainable Mobility Law. The law, as it stands, has been criticised for its lack of clear objectives, both in terms of decarbonisation and the promotion of electromobility. It also lacks references to the goals of the National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC) and does not propose any specific goals for sustainable mobility.
The processing of European funds for sustainable mobility is well advanced, with Carlos Bravo expressing optimism that a three-month delay will not affect the reception of these funds. However, Spain could potentially lose 10 billion euros of these funds if the Sustainable Mobility Law is not approved in time. Transport Minister Óscar Puente has warned about the potential loss of these funds during the debate.
The strategy of the PP's amendment was somewhat weak, according to Bravo, as it was purely devolutionary in nature and based on the rejection of the law. This approach has not been well received by parties such as Esquerra Republicana, Sumar, and Bildu, who have made it clear that the proposal needs improvements.
The real challenge will be in the Senate, where the Popular Party has a majority and could delay approval for up to two months. The Government will have to accept a large number of amendments if it wants to improve the law from an environmental and climate perspective. The directive is estimated to be ready in the first quarter of 2025.
As the Sustainable Mobility Law navigates the complexities of Spain's legislative process, it is clear that the road ahead is fraught with challenges. However, with open dialogue, negotiation, and a commitment to environmental and climate goals, a solution can be found to ensure Spain's future in sustainable mobility.
