Spain's Congress rejected a decree-law extending the rent freeze on Tuesday, with 177 votes against from PP, Vox, Junts, and UPN, against 166 in favor and 5 PNV abstentions. The measure would have affected around three million tenants, according to the government. Minister Pablo Bustinduy defended it and urged the PSOE to reintroduce it.
Congress plenary debated a decree extending the rent freeze for contracts expiring in 2026 and 2027 on Tuesday. PP, Vox, Junts, and UPN united with 177 votes against, defeating it against 166 in favor from PSOE, Sumar, ERC, EH Bildu, Podemos, Coalición Canaria, BNG, and Compromís, plus 5 PNV abstentions.
Pablo Bustinduy, Minister of Consumption and Social Services, warned the rejection leaves three million people 'out in the cold', mainly hit by large holders controlling 60% of the rental market. 'What is voted on today is whether we act in the general interest or that of speculators', he stated. Backed by Yolanda Díaz and Ernest Urtasun, he accused the right of favoring foreign funds over families.
Opponents cited technical flaws and legal uncertainty. Marta Madrenas (Junts) called it a 'propaganda operation' harming owners without compensation. Carlos Hernández Quero (Vox) blamed the government for the crisis due to 'open borders' and supply shortages. Maribel Vaquero (PNV) rejected decree use without consensus. PP's Daniel Pérez Osma labeled it a 'pastiche'.
The defeat highlighted government rifts: Sumar criticized PSOE's negotiation absence and lack of ministers present. Ignasi Conesa (PSOE) urged 'not mistaking the adversary'. Bustinduy called to 'bring it back' 'as many times as needed'. PSOE sources promised to intensify contacts for other housing laws.
PNV canceled a government meeting, questioning Pedro Sánchez's legislative stability.
