Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies Overturns Presidential Veto on Disability Emergency Law
On August 20, 2025, Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies reversed President Javier Milei’s veto of a law declaring an Emergency in Disability, signaling a significant political shift. The decisive vote, supported by 172 members, exceeded the necessary two-thirds majority, reflecting growing unrest among lawmakers regarding the government’s fiscal policies, reports 24brussels.
The newly approved legislation aims to safeguard vulnerable populations by increasing state payments to healthcare providers, establishing a non-contributory pension system, and ensuring access to medical care programs. This law responds to a severe funding crisis precipitated by the Milei administration’s controversial budget cuts.
The outcome of the vote highlights fractures within the government’s coalition, as defections from both the right-wing and centrist blocs, once loyal allies, helped secure the majority. Additionally, key absences from Milei’s party underscored a significant political setback, demonstrating the repercussions of his austerity measures affecting sensitive social services.
This controversy pits social rights against the stringent fiscal policies promoted by Milei. The administration defended its veto by claiming the law was financially impractical and would incur massive costs. However, opposition figures and the Congressional Budget Office countered these assertions with estimates indicating significantly lower financial impact.
During heated discussions, opposition members condemned the government’s approach, describing it as “easy cuts against the most vulnerable” and accusing them of acting with “cruelty.” A last-minute proposal from the administration to potentially increase funding, framed as a means to counter fraud, was criticized as a mere stall tactic and failed to garner additional support.
The next phase of this political battle will unfold in the Senate, where the ruling party holds a precarious minority position. The impending decision will reveal whether the emergency disability law will proceed, aligning against the President’s wishes, or if his veto will be upheld.
