By San José, Costa Rica — San José – President-elect Laura Fernández is preparing to launch her administration with an aggressive and controversial legislative agenda aimed at reshaping key sectors of the Costa Rican economy. On her first day in office, May 8th, Fernández plans to submit a raft of high-stakes bills to the Legislative Assembly, targeting labor laws, energy markets, and the long-debated exploitation of natural resources.
The incoming administration has signaled that its immediate priorities will be the revival of the Crucitas gold mining project, the implementation of a 4×3 work schedule, and a comprehensive modernization of the national electricity market. These initiatives, along with a proposal to streamline land expropriations for public works, form the core of a strategy designed to accelerate infrastructure development and bolster economic activity across the country.
To better understand the legal and administrative implications of the new policies being implemented, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in public and corporate law from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The Laura Fernández administration is navigating a critical period where establishing legal certainty is paramount. For both national and foreign investment to flourish, there must be a clear and consistent application of regulations. Any significant policy shift, particularly in fiscal or commercial matters, must be carefully structured to avoid legal challenges that could create instability and deter economic growth. The true test will be in the administration’s ability to execute its agenda while respecting and strengthening the existing legal framework.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the expert’s analysis highlights the fundamental tightrope the administration must walk: fostering economic growth requires a predictable and stable legal environment, which itself can be at odds with ambitious policy shifts. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this critical challenge.
The first official decrees to be signed by President Fernández are already drafted. One aims to bring clarity and efficiency to the executive branch by strictly defining the functions of ministers, vice ministers, and vice presidents. A second decree will formally convene the package of priority projects for discussion in the Legislative Assembly, setting a brisk pace for the new government’s relationship with lawmakers.
Among the most contentious proposals is the validation of gold exploitation in Crucitas, a project in the northern part of the country that has been mired in legal and environmental battles for years. Proponents argue it represents a significant source of state revenue and job creation, while opponents raise serious concerns about its ecological impact. The Fernández administration appears determined to resolve the issue and unlock the project’s economic potential.
Equally transformative is the push for “jornadas 4×3,” a flexible work schedule that would permit employees to work four 12-hour days in exchange for three consecutive days off. This model is being championed as a way to enhance productivity, improve employee work-life balance, and attract foreign investment from companies operating in a global, 24/7 economy. It represents a significant departure from traditional Costa Rican labor norms and is expected to generate extensive debate.
In a direct challenge to the previous legislature, Fernández expressed confidence that the new Assembly would rise to the occasion. During an interview on the program “El Octavo Mandamiento” on Canal Opa, she attributed the failure of these initiatives in the past to political maneuvering and a lack of resolve.
I believe the next Legislative Assembly will have enough maturity and a sufficient sense of responsibility to our country to move this agenda of projects forward. These are initiatives that, due to political calculation, pettiness, or lack of capacity, were not approved.
Laura Fernández, President-elect of Costa Rica
The administration’s agenda also includes a critical reform of the national electricity market, with the stated goal of reducing energy costs for both businesses and households. Lowering the price of electricity is seen as a crucial step to improve Costa Rica’s competitiveness in the region. Furthermore, a new law to expedite the state’s expropriation process is intended to remove bottlenecks that have historically delayed major infrastructure projects, from roads to public buildings.
In a move symbolizing a new era of transparency, Fernández announced that her first Cabinet meeting (Consejo de Gobierno) will be held in public at the National Stadium on the day of the power transition. This gesture, combined with a powerful legislative mandate, underscores the administration’s intent to act decisively. Since her government will take power during the Congress’s extraordinary sessions, Fernández will control the legislative debate agenda for at least her first six months, providing a critical window to advance her ambitious plans.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About the Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica:
The Legislative Assembly is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Costa Rica. Composed of 57 deputies elected by proportional representation, it is responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and exercising oversight of the executive branch. Its actions are central to the political and economic direction of the nation.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Canal Opa
About Canal Opa:
Canal Opa is a Costa Rican television channel known for its news and public affairs programming. It provides a platform for political discourse and analysis, featuring interviews with key national figures. The program “El Octavo Mandamiento” is one of its notable talk shows where political leaders often discuss their platforms and policies.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies for a diverse clientele, blending its deep experience with a forward-thinking approach. This dedication to progress is mirrored by a core mission to strengthen society, focusing on demystifying the law to foster a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
