Argentina's lower house began debating the glacier law reform on Wednesday, securing quorum with 129 lawmakers from the ruling bloc and allies. The bill, already half-approved by the Senate, lets provinces decide activities on glaciers, drawing sharp criticism from opposition and environmentalists. Protesters gathered outside Congress against the measure.
The session started at 15:13 with 129 deputies present, including support from PRO, UCR, and provincial blocs allied with La Libertad Avanza. The ruling bloc expects to pass the reform in the early hours after over 60 speakers.
Opponents like Jorge Taiana challenged the bill: "We cannot accept this law's approval," he said, noting it defederalizes the rule. Juan Grabois likened it to "putting Yiya Murano in your water tank" and called it unconstitutional. Miguel Pichetto and Martín Lousteau also announced opposition votes, citing constitutional breaches and environmental risks.
Maximiliano Ferraro stressed: "I prefer water over a temporary fortune for some province." Myriam Bregman labeled it a "looting project." From the ruling side, Nicolás Mayoraz dismissed criticisms as "ignorant," and José Peluc claimed 70% support in public hearings.
Outside Congress, environmentalists like Consuelo Bilbao protested: the reform "violates the Constitution" and lacks legitimacy. Heavy police presence was deployed, with a vigil called until the vote. Opposition motions to question officials over cases like Adorni and $LIBRA were rejected.
