The Party of the Socialists of Catalonia (PSC) has introduced modifications to a proposed law aimed at curbing speculative home purchases in Catalonia. The new proposal eliminates restrictions on the number of homes a person or company can acquire, a change made to prevent the future legislation from being annulled on constitutional grounds.
This revision follows an unfavourable opinion from the Council of Statutory Guarantees, an advisory body, which questioned whether aspects of the original text might conflict with constitutional rights such as private property and inheritance. The Council's opinions, while not binding, carry significant weight due to their specialisation and rigour, as stated by the Generalitat.
Changes to Property Acquisition Limits
The updated socialist proposal shifts focus from limiting the number of properties an owner can buy to regulating their use. Under the new text, an unlimited number of properties can be acquired in areas designated as having a stressed residential market. However, these properties must be intended for habitual and permanent residence or for residential rental, adhering to specified regulatory conditions.
The stated goal is to prevent homes from being used for tourist or seasonal purposes. However, the removal of acquisition limits represents a significant departure from the initial agreement reached with the Comuns, a political group that accuses the PSC of watering down measures against speculation. The Comuns argue that the law should restrict speculative acquisitions and prevent property concentration by large owners.
Political Reactions and Deadlines
Jéssica Albiach, the parliamentary leader of the Comuns, has publicly questioned the PSC's approach and called on the President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, to clarify his commitment to the original agreement. The Comuns have warned they may advance their own proposal independently if an agreement is not reached with the PSC before the deadline for submitting amendments on Friday 30th October.
President Illa has defended the need for a legally sound formula, reiterating his commitment to advancing housing regulations while acknowledging the existing differences between political partners on the scope of anti-speculation measures. The debate highlights ongoing difficulties in balancing property purchase limitations with constitutional legal frameworks.
Negotiations between the PSC and the Comuns will determine if a revised text can be agreed upon before the parliamentary deadline. Should an agreement not be reached, the Comuns' intention to pursue their initiative separately could complicate the legislative process for a law both parties consider important.
Primary sources: eb.gencat.cat, govern.cat. Reported by barnadiario.com, democrata.es, elpais.com, larazon.es, ultimahora.es, eldiario.es, uab.media, elperiodico.cat, Barna Diario.
