Spain’s Congress has rejected a legal reform that would have decriminalized early retirement for individuals with 40 years of contributions. The proposed legislation aimed to allow workers who had contributed for four decades to retire without penalty. Despite previously supporting a non-binding motion with similar aims in November 2025, the Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) ultimately voted against the legally binding reform. This decision halts the potential changes to the retirement system, leaving current regulations in place. The failed reform sparked debate regarding the government’s stance on retirement policies and its commitment to workers’ rights. Opponents of the reform raised concerns about the potential financial strain on the pension system. The outcome signals a continuation of the existing retirement age and contribution requirements.