Mexico’s legislators approved a bill Tuesday requiring that women comprise at least 30 percent of each political party’s nominations. At present, women account for 17 percent of Mexico’s Congressional seats. The bill, approved by the Senate and the lower Chamber of Deputies, applies the quota for women candidates at all levels, including the proportionally allotted chamber seats. Historically, these seats have been male-dominated. Parties failing to comply and uphold the quotas will face stiffer penalties and possible disqualification from elections. Still, parties opting for open elections to select candidates are exempt. The bill is pending approval from President Vicente Fox.
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