La Rioja Governor Ricardo Quintela enacted Law No. 10.876 on Friday to support the province's claim over territories now in San Juan. The measure authorizes the executive to pursue actions before Congress and the courts. San Juan Governor Marcelo Orrego rejected any discussion of the boundaries.
Quintela announced the enactment of the law passed by the provincial legislature. The measure rejects the boundaries set by national Law 18.004 in 1968 under dictator Juan Carlos Onganía and authorizes administrative, political and judicial actions to reclaim territorial control.
The legislation directs the state attorney to request precautionary measures to protect natural, water, mining and archaeological resources in the disputed area. It covers territories such as Cerro El Potro and Valle de la Luna.
Marcelo Orrego replied that the limits have stood for 57 years and were confirmed by Congress in 2014. He stated that no province can alter them by its own law and that the Constitution is clear on the matter.
