Government defeated by a handful of votes, passes the amendment by Stefano Candiani (Lega) which establishes competition from the Senate in matters relating to family and health. The Chamber, by secret vote, approved the proposal with 154 yes, 147 no and two abstentions. The president of the Senate Pietro Grasso had granted the secret ballot despite the fact that the Pd group leader Luigi Zanda and the other majority group leaders were against it. Boschi had given the opposite opinion, while the two rapporteurs were divided: Calderoli in favor, Finocchiaro against.
The proposal to amend article 55 of the Constitution gives the Senate competences on family and marriage issues, on health issues and on ethical ones (such as bio-will and civil rights) envisaged by articles 29 and 32 of the Charter.
