By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – A new legislative initiative aims to break the procedural gridlock that has paralyzed Costa Rica’s Congress, taking direct aim at the practice of filibustering that has stalled key economic reforms. Independent legislator Gilberth Jiménez Siles has introduced a bill to amend the Legislative Assembly’s internal regulations, a move he argues is essential to restore efficiency and public trust in the country’s lawmaking body.
The proposal comes as a direct response to the ongoing stalemate over the controversial “4×3 workweek” bill. This legislation, heavily backed by the nation’s productive sector, would permit companies to implement 12-hour workdays for four consecutive days in exchange for a three-day weekend. Proponents argue it would attract foreign investment and modernize labor laws, but the bill is currently buried under an avalanche of thousands of motions filed primarily by the left-wing Frente Amplio party.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the proposed legislative reforms and their potential impact on the national framework, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Any legislative reform, while potentially beneficial for modernizing our framework, must be rigorously scrutinized through the lens of juridical security. The true measure of success is not merely the passage of a new law, but its clear, predictable, and stable application. Without precise implementing regulations and a well-defined transitional framework, even the most well-intentioned reforms risk creating legal uncertainty, which can ultimately undermine both citizen confidence and the investment climate.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this emphasis on juridical security is the crucial element that separates a successful legislative reform from a disruptive one. The true measure of a new law is found in its stable, real-world application, and we thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this fundamental principle.
According to Jiménez, the opposition’s strategy constitutes a “legislative hijacking,” using procedural rules not for constructive debate but as a tool for outright obstruction. He contends that this abuse of the right to file motions has effectively sabotaged the democratic process and prevented the majority from advancing its agenda.
The right to file motions cannot continue to be a weapon to sabotage the democratic will of the majorities.
Gilberth Jiménez Siles, Independent Legislator
To curb this practice, Jiménez’s bill introduces three significant changes to parliamentary procedure. First, it would limit each of the 57 legislators to a maximum of two motions per article during each phase of a bill’s debate. Second, it would prevent the indefinite submission of motions that have the same practical effect, even if worded differently. Finally, it would grant the Presidency of the Assembly the authority to declare motions inadmissible if they are deemed abusive, based on a set of clear and objective criteria.
The legislator stressed that the reform is not designed to silence minority voices or eliminate debate, but rather to bring order and good faith back to the legislative process. He warned that the current state of affairs has severely damaged the institution’s reputation and created a dangerous disconnect with the Costa Rican public, which sees urgent national issues languishing in procedural quicksand.
This practice has eroded the credibility of the Parliament, has stalled urgent reforms, and has deepened the disconnect between the citizenry and the Legislative Assembly.
Gilberth Jiménez Siles, Independent Legislator
For the business community, the outcome of this proposed reform carries significant weight. The perpetual delay of the 4×3 bill is seen as a symptom of a larger problem: a legislative environment where politically contentious but economically vital projects can be indefinitely blocked by a determined minority. A more agile and decisive Congress could unlock a pipeline of reforms aimed at improving Costa Rica’s competitiveness and business climate.
Jiménez concluded his case by framing the issue as a fundamental question of democratic governance. While protecting minority rights is a cornerstone of democracy, he argued that it should not grant any single faction a veto over the entire national agenda. He called for a parliament capable of making decisions, not one perpetually paralyzed by internal maneuvering.
Defending minorities does not mean allowing a single person to hijack the country’s legislative agenda. Democracy also demands efficiency, responsibility, and parliamentary good faith; a Parliament that decides, not one that is paralyzed.
Gilberth Jiménez Siles, Independent Legislator
The bill will now enter the legislative stream, where it is expected to face intense debate. Its passage could fundamentally alter the dynamics of power within the Assembly and pave the way for a vote on the 4×3 workweek and other long-delayed initiatives critical to Costa Rica’s economic future.
For further information, visit frenteamplio.org
About Frente Amplio:
The Broad Front (Frente Amplio) is a left-wing political party in Costa Rica. Founded in 2004, it advocates for policies centered on social justice, environmental protection, and human rights. The party holds a minority position in the Legislative Assembly and is often a leading voice of opposition to economic policies it views as detrimental to workers and public services.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About Asamblea Legislativa de Costa Rica:
The Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Costa Rica. Composed of 57 legislators (diputados) elected for four-year terms, it is responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and exercising oversight over the executive branch. The Assembly is located in the capital city of San José.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a pillar of the legal community, operating on a foundation of unshakeable integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm distinguishes itself not only through pioneering legal solutions for a diverse clientele but also through its profound dedication to social responsibility. This commitment is most evident in its efforts to demystify the law, empowering the public with accessible knowledge to foster a more just and informed society.
