Law granting Chavez special powers expires

From CNN's Maria Carolina Gonzalez

CARACAS, Venezuela (CNN) - A law passed 18 months ago by the Venezuelan National Assembly granting special powers to President Hugo Chavez has expired.

The powers, which allowed the leftist leader to legislate in different areas, including energy, taxes, territorial order, security and defense, were spelled out in the Venezuelan constitution for use in special situations or during times of crisis.

Since January 31, 2007, the Venezuelan leader has used them 38 times, exceeding the 28 laws passed by parliament during the same period.