Structure and Powers of Regional Government Institutions in Catalonia

Institutions of the Autonomous Community (CA)

Legislative Assembly

• Members are chosen by universal suffrage.
• Functions: Budgetary control, regional government control, and selection of Autonomy senators to legislate in matters where competence is attributed.

Council of Government

• Members are called directors and are appointed by the President of the CA.

Superior Court of Justice

• It is the highest court of the community, and its jurisdiction is limited to the same territory.
• This court is integrated into chambers: civil, criminal, administrative, and social.

Constitutional Court

• Its functions include ensuring the constitutionality of laws.
• It corrects actions by the legislature, judiciary, executive, and autonomous bodies when they depart from constitutional standards.
• It is formed by 12 elected members: 2 by the government, 3 by the General Council of the Judiciary, 4 by the Congress, and 4 by the Senate.
• The term for these judges is 9 years, with renewal by thirds every 3 years.

Powers of Ministers

• Set ministry goals.
• Make regulations and approve the budget for ministry public agencies and dependents.
• Determine the internal organization of the ministry.
• Evaluate ministry action plans.
• Appoint and govern ministry bodies.
• Resolve administrative appeals filed against the CA.

Local Regulations and Authorities

Ordinances

Rules adopted in the plenary session of city and provincial councils, regulating economic activity or living standards in the municipality.

Regulations

Approved in the plenary session of the city council and provincial deputation to regulate the functioning of the municipal council or the provincial deputation.

Bandos (Edicts)

Provisions issued by the Mayor on matters of minor significance.

Plenary Session of the City Council

• Questions and requests directed to the Mayor.
• Control the Mayor's actions, including motions of censure against the Mayor.
• Approval of regulations and bylaws.
• Adoption of municipal budgets and taxation of tributes.

Mayor

• Represents the council.
• Directs municipal government and administration.
• Appoints and dismisses deputy mayors.
• Convenes and chairs plenary sessions.
• Enforces city ordinances.
• Directs, drives, and inspects public works and services.
• Conducts urban and rural police security and traffic control.
• Grants licenses for opening works, contracting, and awarding work.