Pope Francis has reformed the Fundamental Law of the Vatican City State—the country's main governing legal document—replacing the one issued by Pope John Paul II in November of 2000.
The framework of the new 'Constitution' confirms much of the prior law but also features two distinct changes.
Formerly, only cardinals were allowed a legislative role in the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State. Under the new law, laymen and laywomen can also be involved in the governance of the State.
The reformed Constitution also places stricter regulations on the budget analyzed by the Pontifical Commission. The three-year financial plan must be submitted directly to the Pope and follow “principles of clarity, transparency and fairness.”
The new Fundamental Law is the third in Vatican history and will go into effect on June 7.
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