Labor reform in the Chamber of Deputies, LIVE: main points, what time it will be voted on and latest news of today, February 19
The Argentine Chamber of Deputies is set to debate the labor reform proposed by Javier Milei's government amidst a national strike by the CGT.
On February 19, 2024, the Argentine Chamber of Deputies is scheduled to debate a significant labor reform pushed by the government of Javier Milei, which has already received preliminary approval from the Senate. This reform is being discussed against the backdrop of a national strike organized by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), indicating considerable public dissent over the proposed changes. The debate is expected to begin at 14:00 local time, drawing significant attention given the contentious nature of certain articles, including Article 44, which has sparked intense internal disagreements.
The Senate has already passed the labor reform bill with a vote of 42 in favor and 30 against, marking a notable victory for President Mileiβs administration. This legislation is seen as a cornerstone of the government's economic agenda, aiming to reshape labor laws in Argentina, which may have profound implications for workers' rights and the overall labor market. Notably, the support for the bill in the Senate has generated mixed reactions among different political factions, with leaders like Patricia Bullrich receiving praise while others, such as Vice President Victoria Eugenia Villarruel, faced criticism.
As the ruling party expresses confidence in securing over 130 votes in the Chamber of Deputies for the final approval of this labor reform, stakeholders and observers will be closely monitoring the outcomes of this debate. The results of this vote could set a precedent for future labor policies in Argentina and significantly affect the socio-economic landscape, particularly in relation to workers' rights and business regulations, amidst ongoing national protests highlighting the challenges the government faces regarding public support for its policies.