### Measures Proposed to Curb Absentee Legislators: Earnings May Be Slashed by Up to 50%
In Tijuana, efforts are underway to address the issue of absenteeism among State Congress deputies. It has been observed that up to 25% of these lawmakers frequently skip sessions or leave early, prompting a call for legislative reforms to impose significant financial penalties on those failing to fulfill their duties.
Evelyn Sánchez Sánchez, President of the State Congress Directing Board, emphasized the urgency of addressing these absentee practices. She highlighted the need for amendments to the Organic Law and Baja California’s own Constitution. These changes aim to ensure accountability, given deputies receive substantial compensation yet fail to regularly attend sessions. Proposed penalties could see deputies forfeiting up to 50% of their income for not participating in official duties.
The proposed reforms underscore the obligations of attending both committee meetings and mandatory ordinary sessions, with no room for recurring excuses or alternative commitments. Although a specific timeline for implementing these changes has not been disclosed, there is a strong push to curb irresponsible practices among state legislators. Instances of deputies appearing only for opening and closing votes and leaving dissatisfied have raised concerns about their engagement and dedication.
### Secondary Article: Legislative Behavior Under Scrutiny in Other Regions
In recent months, similar concerns regarding legislators’ attendance and participation have surfaced in various regions across the globe. This has reignited debates about accountability and the true role of elected officials. In several countries, legislative reforms are being considered to hold lawmakers accountable, with some proposing deductions similar to those in Baja California.
For instance, in certain areas in Europe, reforms are being proposed to ensure lawmakers are more engaged with their constituents’ needs. These include mandatory attendance policies, public reporting of attendance records, and financial penalties for absenteeism. Such measures are intended to enhance the functioning of democratic institutions by ensuring elected officials are fully present and actively contributing to legislative processes.
Globally, the dialogue about legislative transparency and accountability continues to gain momentum, as citizens demand greater dedication from their representatives. Whether these measures will be effectively implemented remains to be seen, but the push for higher standards in legislative conduct is a clear message from the public.