PP and Vox focus on tax reductions tied to a companion law for the 2024 defense budgets. Today, the plenary session of the Valencian Courts is debating a set of measures tied to this rule, with opposition parties proposing changes while the parties forming the Consell defend its contents. The scene reflects a clash over how the proposed tax reforms will affect different social groups and public services in the region.
Before the general assembly convened, the PP ombudsman, Miguel Barrachina, defended the companion law by arguing that the era of tax hardship is ending. He highlighted the abolition of the inheritance tax reference, often labeled as the “death tax,” and the introduction of tax cuts aimed at the lowest earners. “We are especially pleased to fulfill Mazón’s commitments,” Barrachina stated, signaling alignment with the party leadership’s public promises. (Source: Regional parliamentary coverage)
From Vox’s side, José María Llanos, the deputy spokesperson, framed the legislation as a success. Regarding the inheritance provisions, he asserted that the reforms would meet the needs of the middle and working classes and would benefit about 20,000 families. “We think it’s great,” he remarked, emphasizing the expected positive impact on households facing financial strain. (Source: Legislative briefing)
The Socialist side, represented by Rebeca Torro, countered with a different assessment. She argued that the attached law reveals that the PP is on holiday and that even modest changes carry significance. Torro warned that removing restrictions around betting houses near schools could create vulnerabilities for working-class neighborhoods by facilitating gambling among young people, describing the measure as opening the door to exploitative practices. (Source: Opposition statement)
They want to control the media
In a continued critique, Torro accused Mazón, guided by his longstanding political mentor Eduardo Zaplana, of shifting majorities in À Punt to pursue a long-standing media strategy. He said the third amendment would cut political spending while boosting salaries for top officials, suggesting that the new government might carry a higher price tag than its predecessor. (Source: Policy debate transcript)
Compromís’ ombudsman, Joan Baldoví, voiced concerns that the accompanying law could allow PP and Vox politicians to increase their salaries by as much as 20,000 euros per year. This point formed part of why Compromís voted against the measure and proposed a comprehensive revision of the rule. Baldoví also criticized the law for permitting a betting house adjacent to a school or institute and for offering tax amnesty to the wealthiest families. He argued that the legislation would stall the construction of schools, institutes, dormitories, and day centers. Additionally, Baldoví asserted that the law would sanctify an attack on Valencian public television, making participation intolerable for his party. (Source: Parliamentary commentary)