Today's news: Congress evaluates extra costs on electricity bills
Today's highlight is the vote in Congress that could increase electricity bills to compensate energy companies. Additionally, the Chamber of Deputies approved a measure allowing federal government attorneys to work in the private sector, while experts warn of the unstable balance of Brazilian household debt.
Opposition sectors in the Senate are coordinating to overturn a presidential veto that could cost Brazilians R$ 6 billion. The goal of the renewable energy lobby is to ensure compensation for wind and solar energy companies. If the veto is overturned, the amount will be funded by consumers through charges on their energy bills.
The Chamber of Deputies approved Bill (PL) 5531/16, which allows federal attorneys — professionals who legally defend the federal government — to also work in the private sector. The decision comes after studies indicated that at least R$ 4.5 billion was paid to these professionals above the constitutional ceiling, which is the maximum salary limit allowed for public servants.
Consumer credit in Brazil has entered a state of "unstable equilibrium," according to an analysis by asset manager JGP. The level of Brazilian household debt is considered high, and in comparable economies, this scenario would have already generated more explicit signs of crisis, keeping the financial market on alert.
In the infrastructure sector, Brazil is on track to have the largest highway companies in the world due to the current cycle of concession auctions (when the government transfers road management to the private sector). In the social sphere, projects offering Information Technology (IT) training in Brazilian favelas are expanding their reach through partnerships between different NGOs.
To read these and other full news stories, access the News section of our app. Also, see how artificial intelligence is impacting pure mathematics, an interview with philosopher Luiz Felipe Pondé, and discussions regarding the merger of leagues in Brazilian football.