Energy Minister: Chile's 120-Day State of Exception May Be Excessive

Chile's Minister of Energy, Carolina Rincón, has voiced concerns regarding the proposed 120-day state of exception, suggesting it might be excessive. Drawing from her experience as a senator, Rincón indicated that the current method of renewing the state of exception every 15 days with congressional approval complicates legislative work and that alternative, more balanced solutions could be found. She pointedly stated that the previous government neglected its responsibilities in managing critical situations, leaving current President Gabriel Boric's administration to confront a severe crisis.

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120 days can be excessive.

Rincón also addressed the recent approval of a measure allowing the restoration of basic services to debtors in catastrophe zones within 24 hours. While the Executive is not against restoring services, the minister expressed strong reservations about the short 24-hour timeframe, particularly as it was approved within a broader "mega-reform." She described the rapid restoration under extreme conditions as dangerous for both the client and the service worker, implying that such haste could lead to safety oversights or operational risks.

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I believe that middle ground can be found.

The minister's comments highlight ongoing debates within Chile about the appropriate scope and duration of emergency powers and the practical implications of rapid policy implementation in critical situations. Her remarks suggest a need for more considered and sustainable approaches to managing crises, balancing security needs with operational safety and legislative efficiency.

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In this matter, the previous government stopped doing (what was necessary), and now it is up to Kast (the current administration) to face a critical situation.