The Economic Development Commission of the National Assembly of Ecuador is preparing to vote on a report for a second debate concerning a reform bill of the Organic Code of Territorial Organization, Autonomy, and Decentralization (Cootad). This initiative seeks to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of expenditures made by Decentralized Autonomous Governments (GAD) across the country. The committee, which holds a governmental majority, is scheduled to convene virtually at 15:45 on February 17, 2026, to discuss and vote on the document that will proceed to the final debate in the full Parliament.

Prior to the vote, the Economic Development Commission, led by Valentina Centeno from the Acción Democrática Nacional (ADN) political faction, received input from various stakeholders, including officials from the General Comptroller's Office, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and constitutional lawyers. These contributions are essential in shaping the discussion around the proposed bill, which aims to implement fiscal rules that promote more effective budget management by local governments. The bill reflects an important step in Ecuador's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency in public spending, particularly at regional and local levels.

As the Assembly prepares for the final debate and vote, this legislation holds substantial implications for the governance and financial management of GADs in Ecuador. If approved, it could lead to better accountability and transparency in the use of public funds, ultimately benefiting the citizens governed by these decentralized authorities. The outcome of this process is highly anticipated, as it influences the fiscal landscape and operational efficiency of local governments throughout the country.