Due to the fuel crisis, the federal government is considering pushing for a R$53 petrol voucher and a R$1,000 voucher for truck drivers. Previously, the government had spoken of a 400 reais aid for this category. As a result, the price of Auxílio Brasil will also increase from the current R$400 to R$600.

Truck drivers have the opportunity to receive R$ 1,000 in aid – Photo: Marcelo Camargo/Agência Brasil/Arquivo/ND

In contrast to the proposals, the government of Jair Bolsonaro (LP) is considering canceling another initiative that would compensate states in exchange for zeroing the ICMS (goods and services tax) rate on diesel fuel.

The economic group is currently analyzing the impact of the proposals on the budget. According to R7, there is still no cost estimate for these measures, but there are suggestions that they will amount to about 5 billion reais with the help of truck drivers and gasoline vouchers. The total amount is to be paid in the coming days.

Increase in aid to Brazil

The government wants to increase the cost of Auxílio Brasil to 600 reais. An allowance of 400 reais is currently being offered to 18 million families in economic and social vulnerability.

There is also the possibility of issuing a monthly gas voucher. The benefit provides for the payment of 53 reais every two months to 5.7 million Brazilians. According to the government, the cost is based on the national average price of a 13-kilogram cylinder. The government plans to at least double the subsidy and pay it monthly. Eligibility criteria are also subject to change.

Proposals must exceed Brazil’s spending ceiling – Photo: Marcello Casal Jr. Agência Brasil/ND

economic scenario

The head of government in the Federal Senate, Carlos Portiño (PL-RJ), confirmed the possibilities explored in light of the economic scenario.

“The possibility of increasing the Auxílio Brasil by 200 reais exclusively until the end of the year is being discussed, so that the housewife who is at home and has to spend money, whether it be for cylinders, gasoline or energy, can mitigate this. consumption. In addition, a voucher for petrol and a voucher for truck drivers,” Portinho said.

Portiño mentioned the possibility of the government violating the spending ceiling, a rule that limits upfront spending to inflation.

“The resources are the same as those provided by the government, with the legal certainty of exceeding the spending ceiling at an emergency moment, which is an international emergency. All countries of the world are reducing taxes, looking for alternatives to go up, for those who need these benefits, ”he said.

Free distribution of goods, valuables or benefits by government bodies in an election year is prohibited by law. According to the law, such assistance can only be provided in the event of a natural disaster, a state of emergency, or in the presence of legally approved social programs that were already implemented in the budget in the previous year.

Portiño defends the thesis that the international economic scenario caused by the war between Russia and Ukraine will legally sanction this measure.