ROME — The Senate has approved the Boschi bill reforming the Senate, with 179 votes in favour, 16 against and 7 abstentions. This has been a political victory for Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, in face of opposition from both inside his own party and from others. 

  However, this approval from the Senate is only the first round. The two chambers will have to vote again on the bill, then it will go to a public referendum, and finally, the State Council will reveal its verdict. At the earliest, this will be done by 2017. 

  The Minister of Reforms, Elena Boschi, wrote on Twitter “Simply a beautiful day. For us, but above all for Italy. Thanks to those who have always believed in us. It is exactly #lovaltabuona.” Matteo Renzi wrote “Thanks to those who continue to pursue the dream of a simpler and stronger Italy.”