The second block of Bill 163, which reforms the Social Security Fund and focuses on the Invalidity, Old Age, and Death (IVM) program, will be the center of attention in Panama starting this Friday, resuming its discussion after a four-day break. Different factions are expected to present proposals to strengthen, modify, and reach consensus on this block that addresses economic and investment issues.
In the first phase of the discussion of this project, mainly administrative and governance aspects were addressed, involving the Board of Directors of Social Security and the powers granted to the Director of the CSS. Additionally, an increase in the number of executives and the possible elimination of certain positions were considered.
So far, a consensus has been reached on 39 articles, while 6 were rejected and 4 were moved to other parts of the project. The Labor and Health Commission, chaired by Deputy Aláín Cedeño, has closed the first stage of discussions after receiving contributions from citizens and proposals from deputies.
Project 163 arrived at the Assembly on November 6, with consultations beginning on the 11th of the same month. For two months and 18 days, Panama has been expectant regarding this law, considered one of the most relevant in recent years. The Panamanian population has expressed concern about the increase in the retirement age and has requested greater accessibility to medical care and medications.
Organized labor sectors, such as CONUSI, SUNTRACS, educators, university students, and health workers, have expressed their concern and have presented proposals that they feel have not been adequately considered. In light of this situation, they have threatened to mobilize if they are not given a space to be heard. In response, some deputies have called for reducing tensions in order to find beneficial solutions for all Panamanians.
