Spanish Congress Approves Controversial Law Targeting Repeat Offenders

On Thursday, the Plenary of the Congress made headlines as it approved a significant proposal aimed at combating repeat offending. This controversial regulation seeks to increase penalties for petty thefts and has garnered a mix of political support and opposition. With 302 votes in favor, 36 against, and 8 abstentions, the initiative will now move to the Senate following backing from parties including PSOE, PP, Vox, and PNV, while facing opposition from several government partners, notably Podemos, Sumar, and Bildu. The proposal, spearheaded by Junts, modifies Spain's Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Law. It stipulates that petty thefts involving mobile phones could lead to prison sentences of up to three years. Additionally, it aims to classify petty thefts, specifically defined as 'petaqueo'—the act of using boats to smuggle narcotics and steal agricultural tools—as a crime. The initiative also prescribes stricter penalties for repeat offenders who commit fraud below 400 euros, with potential prison sentences ranging from one to six years based on prior convictions. Supporters of the law argue that it is crucial for enhancing safety and addressing citizen concerns over insecurity, particularly in neighborhoods plagued by theft. Junts deputy Marta Madrenas asserted that this law addresses what she described as 'repeated impunity,' underlining that it originates from municipal requests for more effective tools against crime. However, the approval of this law has sparked fierce debate. Critics, particularly from left-wing parties, have branded it as a conduit for far-right ideologies. They argue that the law will not address the underlying issues of poverty and criminal behavior but rather serve to criminalize marginalized groups. Podemos expressed concerns that the legislation fosters stigmatization of the economically disadvantaged, while Bildu underscored its ineffectiveness in curbing theft. The political discourse surrounding the law reflects deep divisions, with accusations flying between the PSOE and its opposition on issues of corruption and immigration policy. PP's Cuca Gamarra pointedly critiqued PSOE's support for this initiative, suggesting it was a distraction from more pressing issues, including the handling of corruption within the party. Vox echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the legislation does not adequately protect law-abiding citizens and instead harms them under the guise of social sensitivity. Moreover, the PNV's support stems from their belief that the law responds adequately to repeated crimes against property, dismissing concerns over potential abuses or misuses of the legal framework created by the new legislation. In summary, while the law reflects a legislative response to public demand for security measures, it raises significant questions about the balance between social justice and punitive measures. The next stage in the Senate will further reveal the contours of the political landscape and the public's response to this contentious issue. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2