Rejection of Amendment to Sustainable Mobility Law as 176 votes cast dissenting votes

The Sustainable Mobility Law, a key initiative aimed at promoting cleaner and more efficient transportation, continues its course amidst debates and challenges. The law, which includes references to the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for maritime transport, has been met with criticism from environmental sectors such as Sumar, who view it as contradictory.

The Government now has an opportunity to open up to negotiation and improve the law. Óscar Puente, Transport Minister, warned during the debate about the potential loss of European funds if the law is not approved in time, amounting to a potential 10 billion euros for Spain.

The processing of European funds for sustainable mobility is well advanced, but the real challenge lies in the Senate, where the Popular Party has a majority and could delay approval for up to two months. The rejection of the amendment by the Popular Party had 176 votes against and 168 in favor.

The text of the law has been criticised for lacking clear objectives, both in terms of decarbonisation and the promotion of electromobility. The defects mentioned in the text highlight problems with the law that can be corrected and addressed through partial revisions. The period for submitting partial revisions is open until October 2, and it may be extended.

Carlos Bravo, an environmental consultant, is optimistic about the reception of the European funds shipment, despite a potential three-month delay. He believes that the Government will have to accept a large number of amendments if it wants to improve the law from an environmental and climate perspective. Esquerra Republicana, Sumar, and Bildu have made it clear that the proposal needs improvements.

The next steps for the law include the beginning of trilogue negotiations between the Commission, Council, and Parliament, scheduled to start in early 2025. These negotiations will be followed by consultations, expert discussions, and adjustments to integrate the draft into applicable law. Additionally, some laws that have been enacted by the cabinet are pending submission to the Bundestag for further parliamentary processes.

Carlos Bravo, in conversation with Mobility Portal España, summed up the situation, expressing optimism despite the challenges ahead. The future of the Sustainable Mobility Law remains uncertain, but with open negotiations and a focus on improving the law, it may yet find a path towards approval.