The Congress has had an unusual day by approving with a wide margin a legislative initiative from the Popular Party (PP) to provide aid to people with celiac disease, a measure aimed at alleviating the impact of the high cost of gluten-free foods. The proposal received 338 votes in favor, with the support of the coalition government parties, PSOE and Sumar, while Podemos abstained and three deputies voted against. However, the plenary session made clear that this initiative, which promises tax deductions of up to 600 euros and the creation of a state patient registry, still faces a modification process, during which improvements and criticisms received are expected to be integrated. Despite the favorable votes, concerns persist about the possibility that the processing could stall in the Chamber, as the PP has pointed out.
The coalition partners, although they backed the start of the legislative process, expressed criticisms of the PP and its proposal. Isabel Iniesta, of the PSOE, described the measure as 'unjust and regressive', questioning the lack of criteria based on income level. On the other hand, Sumar defended advancing the process in order to introduce significant improvements, highlighting the relevance of the Ministry of Health's recent statements on celiac disease as a chronic condition. The groups' interventions stressed the need for a more inclusive approach that contemplates economic and family circumstances, while reiterating the commitment to continue working to ensure adequate support and resources for those affected by this condition throughout the country.
Read the full news article on The Country.
