Alejandra Montenegro Almonte commented on the recent changes to the Honduran penal code which reduces penalties for certain corruption and fraud offenses. The new law, which went into effect on June 25, reduces the maximum prison sentences for such crimes as embezzlement, illicit enrichment, and fraud. "Lightening the sentences significantly weakens the fight against corruption, which was already flagging," said Montenegro Almonte. She also highlighted the Honduran parliament's vote to disband its Mission to Support the Fight against Corruption and Impunity in Honduras, its anti-corruption agency. "The hope was that it would be replaced by a home-grown commission, but this hasn't been the case." Montenegro Almonte noted some positive aspects in the code saying it clearly defines corruption and other financial crimes and gives prosecutors the authority to pursue Honduran nationals for misconduct committed outside of the country. "The new code could demonstrate, if we're being generous, some alignment to emerging international standards of what public corruption is."