Francina Armengol, the President of the Congress of Deputies, has called for a reform of the Spanish Constitution to amend the functions of the Senate, which is currently dominated by the People's Party (PP).

Speaking at a breakfast event in the Ateneo de Madrid, Armengol expressed concerns that the Senate's operations have become politicized, stating that it serves as a tool to oppose the government rather than fulfilling its intended role.

She characterized the situation as leading to ineffective use of time within the legislative process.

Armengol argued for the Senate's transformation into a body focused on territorial representation, advocating for increased participation from regional governments.

She emphasized that the Senate should facilitate shared decision-making between the federal and autonomous governments, reflecting a need for better synergy in governance.

Her remarks come in the context of ongoing conflicts between the two legislative chambers, following the 2023 elections, where the PP acquired a majority in the Senate while the Socialist Party (PSOE) retains control of the Congress.

The topic of Senate reform has been a long-standing issue within Spanish politics; however, it remains unfeasible given the lack of consensus between the PSOE and PP, both of which would need to find common ground to secure a constitutional amendment.

Armengol acknowledged this challenge but maintained that discussing such 'utopias' is essential for progress.

In addition to Senate reform, Armengol has called for revisions to the regulations governing the Congress to enhance public engagement with parliamentary debates.

She noted the growing disconnect between citizens and the issues discussed in Congress, advocating for a comprehensive overhaul of procedural rules rather than piecemeal changes.

Her suggestions included updating debate topics and formats to better resonate with the public.

Among the proposals put forth is the reduction of required signatures for Popular Legislative Initiatives (ILPs) and expediting their processing.

This comes in light of concerns about a specific ILP aimed at legalizing the status of half a million migrants, which has been stalled for over a year without clear prospects for progress.

While discussing potential regulatory changes, Armengol dismissed suggestions that the reforms might limit the time allocated for government debates.

Critics from the opposition have raised concerns that current practices, which allow the Prime Minister to speak indefinitely while limiting parliamentary groups to 15 minutes, disadvantages the opposition in debates.

Armengol contended that it is reasonable for the Prime Minister to provide thorough explanations during such discussions and noted that no previous government leaders have chosen to restrict their speaking time.

Armengol also addressed allegations from the PP regarding a so-called 'freezer' effect, wherein their legislative proposals are purportedly delayed or stalled.

She refuted the existence of such a practice and denied that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had issued instructions to this end.

The President of the Congress explained that legislative timelines are managed to enable consensus, although she acknowledged some initiatives, like the PP's Anti-Okupas law, may not be proceeding despite the potential for agreement.