This agreement, supported by both groups with 81 out of 135 deputies, marks a milestone as it is the first regional parliament to validate one of Vox's most controversial proposals. The initiative, initially put forward by Vox representatives, was later nuanced by the Popular Party.
The Non-Legislative Proposal (PNL) urges the Government of the Community of Madrid to request the national Government to guarantee 'national priority' and the sustainability of the welfare state. Vox's original proposal sought to prioritize access to social aid, public services, and housing programs for nationals, as well as to suspend the regularization of migrants and activate the 'remigration' of foreigners who do not contribute to the national economy.
“"It is not radical, but common sense."
The initiative has drawn criticism from progressive sectors, who have labeled it 'racist,' 'xenophobic,' and 'illegal,' arguing that it contravenes constitutional principles of equality. In response, the Popular Party introduced an amendment to link 'national priority' to the 'real, lasting, and verifiable roots' of citizens in their place of residence, study, work, and tax payment, rather than based on country of origin or nationality.
“"If 'national priority' refers, as we refer to it, to a priority of rootedness and not of origin or nationality, we will agree."
This amendment establishes a 'reinforced minimum period of rootedness, registration, and connection to the territory,' and conditions access to aid on contribution history and system contribution, excluding those in irregular situations from structural social benefits and services, except in cases of vital urgency. For example, in protected housing, priority would be given to those with historical registration in the territory, with a minimum of ten years for purchase and five for rental.
Despite initial reluctance, Vox accepted the amendment, allowing the PNL to proceed. Subsequently, the Popular Party also voted in favor of another PNL to ensure the expulsion of foreigners for serious or repeat offenses, and to urge the national Government to repeal the Royal Decree on mass immigrant regularization, arguing that it lacks control mechanisms and violates European principles on migration.
