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Italy’s Chamber of Deputies Passes Sweeping Rules Overhaul to Curb Party‑Switching

Broad backing contrasted with an M5S abstention over time limits on decree-law scrutiny.

Overview

  • Lawmakers approved the package 249–0 with 33 abstentions, rewriting 73 articles in the most extensive update since 1997.
  • The reform’s anti-defection measure will, from the next legislature in 2027, allow only 50% of a deputy’s group-linked funding to move with them, with loss of most internal posts and an exemption for splits of at least seven members.
  • A formal Code of Conduct is now part of the rules, requiring asset and financial disclosures, reporting of donations above €5,000, and a ban on gifts over €250, with violations publicized by the consultative committee.
  • Procedural changes include government-requested fixed final vote dates, stronger guarantees that minority bills reach the floor, and tighter limits on late or unexplained amendments.
  • A new option to time-limit debate on decree-laws when no confidence vote is used drew criticism from the Five Star Movement, which abstained in protest.