The Chamber of Deputies approved with broad support the bill creating the National System of Supports and Care, a key government initiative. The vote garnered 90 in favor and now returns to the Senate for final review. Minister Javiera Toro highlighted the collaborative legislative work between chambers.
After 5 p.m., the Chamber of Deputies plenary voted on the Mixed Commission's report on the bill recognizing the right to care and creating the National System of Supports and Care. The initiative passed with 90 votes in favor, none against, and 38 abstentions, mainly from Republicans, UDI, and RN lawmakers. The text now returns to the Senate for approval before becoming law.
The Mixed Commission unanimously approved the supervision role of the Secretariat of Supports and Care and established the Interministerial Committee for Social Development, Family, and Care, along with its functions. Prior to the vote, Minister of Social Development and Family Javiera Toro (FA) stressed that only two issues were debated, indicating "a legislative process conducted in a serious, technical manner, but above all collaboratively between both chambers, reflecting a cross-cutting agreement on the need for a coherent and effective care institutionality".
Toro warned that rejecting these provisions would have "relevant institutional consequences," as they are essential for the system's operation, already approved by Congress. During discussions, lawmakers from various political affiliations supported the bill, though Republican deputy Stephan Schubert filed a reservation of constitutionality. Schubert contended that the rule fails to specify access by children and adolescents to care programs without parental knowledge and consent, potentially undermining parental authority and exposing minors. He also challenged the quorum requirements in articles 11 and 12 due to discrepancies between the Senate and Chamber.
The bill recognizes the right to care as receiving care, providing care, and self-care. The National System of Support and Care (SNAC) promotes autonomy, prevents dependency, and requires state bodies to apply principles such as social and gender co-responsibility, family recognition, and freedom of conscience. Beneficiaries include children, people with disabilities, older adults, dependents, and paid or unpaid caregivers. The structure includes a political level with the Interministerial Committee, an executive level under the Ministry of Social Development and Family, and a participation level with the Civil Society Council for Supports and Care.
