Costa Rican lawmakers have approved significant budget cuts to key social programs to address funding shortfalls in the pension system for the country’s most vulnerable citizens. Approximately 40 billion colones (approximately $76 million USD) will be cut from the National Electoral Council and Civil Registry (CEN-Cinai), and 30 billion colones ($57 million USD) from the Mixed Institute of Social Aid (BANHVI). The cuts were initiated by the Pueblo Soberano political group within the Finance Committee. These funds will be redirected to cover pension obligations. Proponents argue the move is necessary to protect the pensions of the poorest citizens. Critics express concern over the impact these reductions will have on essential services provided by CEN-Cinai and BANHVI. The decision highlights the ongoing financial pressures facing Costa Rica’s social safety net.