Romania’s Premier to Revise Controversial Emergency Ordinance Blocking Local Repairs

BUCHAREST, Romania — Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan announced plans to revise Emergency Ordinance 52/2025, which has faced backlash from mayors across the country concerning restrictions on local governments’ ability to conduct repairs and purchase essential materials.

During a press conference on Thursday, government spokesperson Ioana Dogioiu stated that the revision is set to be discussed at the next cabinet meeting. This decision follows complaints from members of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), particularly Craiova Mayor Lia-Olguța Vasilescu, who argued that the current ordinance effectively paralyzes municipal operations.

Vasilescu raised concerns that new provisions prevent local authorities from making vital infrastructure repairs ahead of winter. She highlighted that the ordinance bans repairs to roads, schools, and hospitals, stating, “This prohibition means we cannot prepare roads for snow removal or other essential services, especially in mountainous regions where winter conditions can be severe.”

Additionally, Vasilescu pointed out that the ordinance halts feasibility studies and expert evaluations crucial for accessing European funding, which puts ongoing projects at risk. “Without these studies, we cannot absorb necessary funds,” she emphasized.

Mario De Mezzo, the mayor of Slatina from the National Liberal Party (PNL), echoed similar frustrations and claimed that the ordinance impedes the issuance of essential documents, including birth and death certificates. He mentioned that Slatina’s local administration is down to just 22-23 birth certificates, risking the legal registration of new births.

De Mezzo stated, “If the ordinance isn’t revised, we will be unable to issue birth certificates for every newborn. Currently, we are unable to procure more certified documents due to constraints outlined in the emergency ordinance.”

As Bolojan prepares to address these issues, tensions are rising among local leaders who feel financially hampered by the current regulations. The prime minister’s upcoming announcement, which will release a list of municipalities with payment arrears for local taxes, further signals the government’s stern stance on financial accountability.

Authorities face mounting pressure to resolve these concerns promptly, as local operations remain in jeopardy due to unfunded mandates under the existing ordinance.