15-02-26 - Asamblea Legislativa - 144º Apertura de Sesiones Ordinarias - Mensaje del Gobernador
Opening of the Legislative Assembly
Introduction and Context
- The session begins with a formal greeting to attendees, including legislators, media, and the public from Santa Fe. This marks an important historical moment on February 15, 2026, coinciding with the reformed Constitution's implementation.
Attendance Verification
- Secretary Agustín Lemos is tasked with verifying attendance for both the Senate and Chamber of Deputies. A roll call follows, listing present and absent members.
Session Commencement
- With a quorum established, the session is officially opened. Notable figures such as former governors are invited to raise the national flag in the assembly hall. Applause follows this ceremonial act.
Reading of the Convocation Decree
Official Decree Announcement
- The secretary reads decree number 21 from February 6, 2026, which convenes the legislative assembly to hear the governor's annual report on public affairs at the start of ordinary sessions for this legislative period. The decree is formally registered and archived by President Felipe Enrique Miclic.
Preparation for Governor's Address
Approval of Previous Minutes
- The minutes from the previous session are approved without objections after being presented for consideration. This procedural step ensures continuity in legislative discussions.
Committee Designation
- Proposals are made to form external and internal committees responsible for receiving Governor Maximiano Puo upon his arrival at the assembly hall; these motions are subsequently approved through voting processes led by Senators Borla and de Stefano respectively.
Intermission Before Governor’s Arrival
Motion for Intermission
- Senator Borla requests a break until Governor Puo arrives in order to maintain decorum during his entrance into the chamber; this motion passes unanimously among legislators present at that time.
Reopening of Session & National Anthem
Resumption of Proceedings
- Following intermission marked by music, legislators reconvene as they prepare to welcome Governor Maximiano Puo into the assembly hall amidst applause from attendees who stand in respect during his entrance.
Singing of National Anthem
- Attendees join together in singing Argentina's national anthem as part of welcoming traditions; this moment emphasizes national pride and unity within governmental proceedings.
Opening Session of Legislative Period
Introduction to Transformations in Santa Fe
- The speaker emphasizes the responsibility of opening the legislative session amidst significant transformations in Santa Fe. They acknowledge the costs associated with these reforms but stress the urgency of returning state authority to its rightful owners, the citizens.
Commitment to Change
- Acknowledging that it would have been easier to maintain the status quo, the speaker insists on taking action rather than deferring responsibilities. This commitment is framed as a moral obligation to both the people and themselves.
Historical Context and Significance
- The date marks a symbolic moment linked to constitutional reform, highlighting a pivotal change agreed upon by Santa Fe's citizens. Additionally, it coincides with the 240th anniversary of Brigadier Estanislao López’s birth, who is noted for his leadership during turbulent times in Argentina's history.
Authority and Order
- The speaker reflects on López's understanding that without state authority, chaos ensues, which remains relevant today. They argue that true freedom requires order as a foundational condition for societal functioning—an idea they intend to address throughout their governance.
Addressing Security Challenges
Current State of Violence
- Upon assuming office, Santa Fe faced critical security issues characterized by organized crime and escalating violence affecting daily life for many families. The government openly acknowledges this crisis without downplaying its severity or impact.
Action Over Words
- The administration asserts that reversing this trend cannot be achieved through mere rhetoric or isolated measures; instead, sustained political will and strategic planning are essential for meaningful change over time.
Police Force Enhancements
Support for Law Enforcement
- The government expresses gratitude towards police officers and penitentiary staff for their dedication in restoring peace within communities while committing to improve their working conditions further.
Recruitment and Resources
- Since taking office, 2,000 new police recruits have been added alongside enhanced training programs and increased territorial presence through more than 2,500 operational police vehicles equipped with necessary logistics support.
Technological Advancements in Policing
Surveillance Improvements
- Significant upgrades have been made to surveillance systems with thousands of cameras integrated into provincial monitoring centers connected directly with patrol units and criminal investigations across various regions including Rosario and Santa Fe city areas.
Innovative Tools
- Introduction of "Lince," an advanced tool utilizing artificial intelligence designed for rapid data processing which aids in identifying individuals or vehicles swiftly—showing promising initial results since implementation.
Strategic Crime Prevention Measures
Focused Patrol Strategies
- A new intensive patrolling strategy has been deployed targeting high-crime areas effectively reducing response times significantly—6 minutes 6 seconds for urgent cases in Rosario compared to 5 minutes 13 seconds in Santa Fe city overall enhancing public safety perceptions among residents.
Criminal Organization Disruption
- Emphasis on dismantling entire criminal organizations rather than addressing isolated incidents has led to successful operations against drug trafficking locations resulting in numerous closures thereby restoring community tranquility while reinforcing law enforcement collaboration with judicial authorities through legislative support like micro-trafficking laws passed recently.
Prison System Reforms
Infrastructure Investments
- A historic plan aimed at improving penitentiary infrastructure includes constructing new facilities equivalent to what was built over a century ensuring better management of inmates particularly those considered high-risk offenders thus preventing past issues related to prison control from recurring.
Zero Tolerance Policy
- Clear policies are established regarding inmate treatment emphasizing strict isolation protocols aimed at curbing illegal communications among incarcerated criminals thereby disrupting organized crime operations originating from prisons—a decisive step towards enhancing overall public safety.
Security and Infrastructure Improvements in Santa Fe
Overview of Security Measures
- The government has implemented extensive public works, budget allocations, and technological advancements to enhance security.
- Significant investments have been made in infrastructure and equipment aimed at improving safety across all localities, totaling one trillion pesos.
Impact on Homicide Rates
- A notable reduction in homicide rates was observed, with a decrease of 50% to 55% from 2022 to 2023 in the province.
- In January 2023, there were only 15 homicides reported compared to 65 in the previous year, marking it as the least violent month in over two decades.
Collaborative Efforts for Safety
- Achieving these results required coordinated efforts between various sectors including the executive branch and justice system. Collaboration with the Ministry of Public Prosecution was essential.
- Key figures such as Attorney General María Cecilia Branisich and others were acknowledged for their contributions to enhancing safety measures.
Investment in Resources
- Investments were necessary not just in technology but also in human resources for analysis and investigation teams. Daily coordination with federal forces was emphasized as crucial for success.
- The police force's commitment is highlighted, particularly focusing on young officers who often face challenging working conditions while ensuring community safety.
Addressing Police Welfare
- The government recognized police protests as legitimate concerns stemming from their demanding roles; measures are being taken to improve their working conditions without compromising security plans.
- Initiatives include enhancing transportation systems for officers, increasing food assistance amounts, providing accommodation support, and bolstering mental health services for nearly 1000 agents since taking office.
Educational Reforms: A Path Forward
Importance of Educational Transformation
- Emphasizing that educational reform is critical alongside security improvements; addressing systemic inequalities within education is paramount for student rights to learn effectively.
Attendance Incentives
- Introduction of a perfect attendance incentive program rewarding teachers' daily presence without penalizing those who may miss days due to valid reasons; this aims to ensure consistent learning environments for students.
Improvement Metrics
- There was a significant increase from approximately 8,898 teachers with minimal absences in early 2023 to over 59,122 by December 2025 due to these initiatives; maintaining school calendars has also improved class regularity significantly across the province.( t =4761 s )
Literacy Programs
- Launching an early literacy initiative called "Raíz," which reached over 104,827 first and second graders by 2025; distributing more than 300,000 books across schools demonstrates commitment towards foundational education improvement.( t =4794 s )
Community Engagement
- The plan has evolved into a community effort rather than solely governmental; positive feedback from parents indicates successful engagement through relatable educational content like characters Analía or Rolo used within classrooms.( t =4827 s )
Education and Infrastructure Initiatives in Santa Fe
Investment in Education
- The government has inaugurated 25 educational buildings and is executing another 32, investing a total of 124 billion pesos to improve teaching and learning conditions.
- A significant investment of 122 billion pesos has been made for the "boleto educativo" program, facilitating transport for teachers, students, and assistants to reach educational institutions.
- A new primary education curriculum will be implemented this year after 30 years, introducing enhanced content in languages, mathematics, and technology-related concepts.
Emphasis on Technology in Education
- This year also marks the introduction of artificial intelligence and digital education into the curriculum while regulating mobile phone usage in classrooms.
- The government aims to recognize teachers' contributions as they implement these historical changes within the educational system.
Support for Economic Growth
- In response to complex economic challenges, efforts are being mobilized to support producers and job creators with an allocation of 130 billion pesos for small businesses (pymes) and entrepreneurs through various credit lines.
- Santa Fe is positioned as Argentina's productive engine with historic investments aimed at improving infrastructure related to production logistics and energy.
Infrastructure Development
- An investment of 161 billion pesos has been directed towards strategic infrastructure projects including the comprehensive renovation of Malvinas International Airport which enhances export capabilities.
- Significant improvements are underway in port areas responsible for a large percentage of Argentina's grain exports, including a new dock at Rosario port.
Commitment to Local Businesses
- The government acknowledges local entrepreneurs who have built their businesses from scratch, emphasizing their importance in driving economic growth without speculation or reliance on external factors.
- A plan was launched this year focusing on tax reductions and fiscal relief across various sectors to alleviate burdens on agriculture, industry, transportation, hospitality, tourism, and more.
Job Creation Initiatives
- Tax exemptions have been introduced for agricultural activities; rural property taxes have discounts up to 50%, while industries can reduce effective tax rates significantly by deducting electricity costs.
- New employment initiatives allow companies expanding their workforce to deduct salaries from taxes starting January 1st.
Workforce Development Programs
- The "Impulsa" program connects thousands of Santafesinos with job training opportunities that align with market demands while providing financial support for genuine employment opportunities.
Infrastructure Development and Community Impact
Overview of Public Works Initiatives
- Over 15 infrastructure projects initiated, including roads, aqueducts, hospitals, schools, and community facilities.
- Key projects include the renovation of major routes (Route 90, Route 3, Route 21) and significant urban developments in Rosario and Venado Tuerto.
- The third lane of the Rosario-Santa Fe highway is nearing completion; a crucial project for provincial logistics set to be inaugurated soon.
Investment in Cultural Institutions
- Historical investments are being made to renovate museums such as Rosa Galisteo and Julio Marc.
- Local employment is generated through urban works that enhance community life across various municipalities.
Housing Financing Strategies
- Introduction of "Nido" credits aimed at providing mortgage financing; over 32 billion pesos allocated with two loans issued daily.
Strategic Planning for Upcoming Events
- Focus on the Suramerican Games 2026 as a strategic development opportunity rather than just a sporting event.
- More than 130 infrastructure actions linked to the games are underway, enhancing public spaces and sports facilities for future community use.
Economic Revitalization Through Sports
- The games aim to boost local employment and stimulate sectors like construction, tourism, and culture while fostering community engagement.
- A significant increase in tourism has been noted; January alone saw 200,000 visitors contributing to an economic impact of over 107 billion pesos.
Addressing Social Challenges
Reflection on Societal Issues
- Acknowledgment of societal frustrations due to economic hardships affecting daily life essentials like food security and healthcare access.
Personal Anecdotes Highlighting Community Values
- Recollection of experiences from primary school emphasizing public responsibility towards those in need; a call for solidarity within communities.
Commitment to Food Security
- A pledge made upon taking office to ensure no one lacks food or healthcare support; substantial investment (181.6 billion pesos) directed towards nutritional assistance programs.
Educational Support Initiatives
- Significant funding allocated for school meal programs (41.3 billion pesos), reaching over 246,153 beneficiaries through initiatives like Santa Fe Nute.
Comprehensive Overview of Social Initiatives and Health Improvements
Focus on Vulnerable Populations
- The province collaborates with local governments and nearly 1000 institutions to support vulnerable groups, including women, people with disabilities, the elderly, and particularly children and adolescents.
Establishment of Child Welfare Facilities
- In 2026, a unique child welfare center will open in Rosario, addressing all rights of children in social vulnerability as per the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It will operate 24/7.
- The purchase of Hogar Casa Cuna will serve as the headquarters for this initiative in Santa Fe. Additionally, a juvenile justice center is being established under new legal frameworks.
Support for Youth Development
- Highlighting engagement with 21,855 youths aged 16 to 25 who are involved in group training programs aimed at life project development through "Nueva Oportunidad."
Healthcare Infrastructure Advancements
- Significant health projects include the recently inaugurated Jaime Ferré Hospital in Rafaela and the reactivation of construction for other hospitals after years of delay. Investments total around 70 billion pesos.
- Infrastructure improvements are underway across 256 health centers to address historical deficiencies in healthcare facilities within the province.
Emergency Services Enhancement
- In 2025 alone, there were over half a million emergency movements recorded—90,000 more than in previous years—supported by acquiring additional ambulances to improve service delivery.
Commitment to Medication Accessibility
- A commitment is made that no resident will lack necessary medications due to improved procurement processes that have resulted in significant cost savings (up to 83% on critical drugs). This funding is reinvested into healthcare services.
Mental Health Initiatives
- Addressing mental health has become a priority; specialized areas have been strengthened within public hospitals with training provided for over 7,000 workers amidst ongoing challenges related to substance abuse and bullying issues.
Cultural Engagement Strategies
- Cultural initiatives aim to reach diverse communities by promoting artistic endeavors such as music and dance while ensuring environmental sustainability through various projects funded by international agencies totaling €65 million. These efforts also focus on waste management improvements across regions.
Legislative Actions for Financial Sustainability
- Legislative measures have been enacted to address pension fund deficits effectively halving them while ensuring future benefits for current contributors remain secure—a crucial step towards financial stability for retirees today and tomorrow.
Key Developments in Public Administration and Governance
Solidarity Contributions and Pension Adjustments
- The extraordinary solidarity contribution will not be extended, aiming to maintain fiscal responsibility while supporting retirees.
- Active personnel salary increases will now be transferred to retirees the following month instead of within 60 days, ensuring better financial management for both groups.
- Compensation amounts are maintained to ensure that no retiree spends more than 5% of their income on medications.
Digital Transformation in Public Administration
- Emphasizing the need for a modern and agile state, there is a push towards digitalization in public administration to enhance citizen engagement.
- By June 30, 2026, all central and decentralized public administration processes aim to be fully digital, reducing bureaucratic burdens and improving service quality.
- The Territorio 5.0 program has been launched as part of this digital government initiative, with the Timbó platform facilitating streamlined administrative processes for citizens.
Data Governance and Citizen Engagement
- The Imbos platform enhances governance by organizing public data into strategic assets for decision-making in public policy based on evidence.
- A focus on creating a "digital citizen" who can interact with the state digitally through the Mi Santa Fe app allows residents to manage their affairs without unnecessary travel or waiting times.
Monitoring and Evaluation of Government Actions
- An integrated monitoring dashboard tracks real-time indicators across various areas of governance, having already recorded 41,000 actions taken by the administration.
- Governing with data is framed as an obligation rather than a trend; it aims at continuous improvement in governance practices.
Constitutional Reforms and Future Directions
- The recent constitutional reform represents a significant historical change after 63 years, aimed at consolidating diverse demands into a coherent framework for governance.
- New provisions include measures against unjustified privileges and indefinite re-elections while promoting fiscal order within public accounts—positioning the Constitution as an opportunity for future development.
Security as a Foundation for Progress
- Emphasizing security's role in enabling effective governance: schools cannot function under fear; investments require tranquility; health systems depend on safety from violence. Thus, restoring peace is paramount for societal progress.
- Santa Fe's approach demonstrates that authority can coexist with democratic values—governing effectively without resorting to authoritarianism while maintaining accountability over public resources amidst challenges faced by society at large.
Inauguration of the Legislative Session in Santa Fe
Commitment to Justice and Organization
- The speaker emphasizes the importance of reinforcing the reformed Constitution, highlighting a previous discussion about making Santa Fe a territory of justice.
- There is a call to organize various aspects of governance to prevent personal exploitation of state resources, stressing the need for alignment with general interests.
- A collective effort is encouraged to ensure that Santa Fe becomes a "territory of the future," indicating aspirations for progress and development.
Opening Remarks and Blessings
- The speaker officially inaugurates the ordinary session period of the legislature in Santa Fe, marking an important moment in governance.
- A blessing for the people is invoked, reflecting a desire for divine guidance over their endeavors.