The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies is poised for a demanding legislative session in 2025, with President Hugo Motta (Republicans-PB) facing a complex agenda dominated by critical reforms in public security, labor laws, and digital regulation, all unfolding against the backdrop of an impending electoral cycle. This pivotal year is set to test congressional resolve as key proposals, some carried over from previous legislative periods, demand urgent attention to shape the nation’s future. The legislative body must navigate intricate negotiations and potential political gridlock to advance measures that address pressing societal concerns and economic shifts, particularly in a period where public sentiment and political alliances are highly volatile.
Motions such as the Security Constitutional Amendment Proposal (PEC da Segurança) and the “Anti-Faction” bill, both introduced by the government in 2025, are slated for renewed consideration, with potential for progress as early as February. These critical proposals are exempt from the standard review process within permanent committees, which are themselves undergoing leadership changes at the start of the year and could face delays in resuming their work, contingent on ongoing party negotiations. The urgency surrounding these legislative efforts underscores a broader push to solidify public safety frameworks and adapt to new challenges facing the country.
Combating crime: Key security proposals
The “Anti-Faction” project, having already advanced through the Senate, returns to the Chamber with significant modifications that have largely appeased governmental criticisms. Initially, during its approval in the Chamber, the governing coalition opposed the bill following numerous alterations by its rapporteur, Deputy Guilherme Derrite (PP-SP), a former Secretary of Public Security for São Paulo. The Senate’s adjustments, negotiated by Senator Alessandro Vieira (MDB-SE), were met with approval from the government, signaling a potential path forward for the controversial legislation.
This refined proposal aims to stiffen penalties and establish new criminal categories specifically targeting the actions of organized crime syndicates, reflecting a concerted effort to enhance the legal framework for combating serious offenses. The bill’s return to the Chamber of Deputies necessitates a decision on whether Deputy Derrite will maintain his role as rapporteur, a factor that could influence the final trajectory of the legislation. His past involvement and the government’s initial opposition underscore the political sensitivity surrounding these measures.
Separately, the PEC da Segurança seeks to implement structural changes regarding investment and integrated operations for security forces across Brazil. This constitutional amendment, however, has drawn criticism from right-wing governors who express concerns about a potential erosion of state-level competencies and autonomy in public security matters. The proposal currently requires a vote in a special commission before it can proceed to the full plenary session of the Chamber, highlighting the significant hurdles it still faces.
The evolving landscape of artificial intelligence
Another critical item awaiting resolution is the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) use within the country, a proposal that inherently intersects with cybersecurity concerns. This discussion is anticipated to gain considerable momentum as the 2025 elections draw nearer, underscoring the growing public and governmental recognition of AI’s pervasive impact. The legislative body faces the challenge of crafting a framework that fosters innovation while mitigating risks.
Reports indicate that the project’s rapporteur, Deputy Aguinaldo Ribeiro (PP-PB), is considering integrating provisions from the provisional measure (MP) that established Redata, Brazil’s Special Taxation Regime for Datacenter Services. This MP, focused on incentivizing investments in technology and digital services, is set to expire on February 25, 2025. The Chamber’s leadership aims to vote on the AI project, incorporating relevant parts of the MP, prior to this deadline to prevent a lapse in critical digital infrastructure support.
Regulating digital giants and platform economy
Concurrently, the government is keenly awaiting progress on a separate bill designed to economically regulate major technology companies operating in Brazil. This proposal, submitted in September 2025, remains pending a dispatch from Hugo Motta, indicating the legislative queue of digital-centric policies. Designated rapporteur Deputy Aliel Machado (PV-PR) will play a crucial role in steering this complex legislation through the Chamber.
The proposed legislation seeks to significantly expand the competencies of the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), Brazil’s antitrust authority. Under the new framework, CADE would be empowered to designate which digital platforms hold “systemic relevance” within their respective markets. This critical designation would grant a specific superintendence within CADE the authority to impose special obligations on these identified “big techs,” aiming to foster fair competition and prevent market abuses.
The initiative reflects a global trend towards greater scrutiny of large technology firms and their market dominance. By strengthening CADE’s antitrust capabilities, the government intends to ensure a more balanced and equitable digital marketplace. This enhanced regulatory oversight is designed to safeguard consumer interests and promote innovation across the digital economy, mitigating potential monopolistic practices.
Debates on the 6×1 work scale and labor reforms
The government has also prioritized negotiations concerning the cessation of the 6×1 work scale, a contentious issue under review by a special subcommittee within the Chamber’s Labor Commission. The ongoing discussions reflect broader national conversations about work-life balance and fair labor practices, aiming to modernize Brazil’s employment landscape. A consensus on the issue is critical for both workers and employers.
Deputy Luiz Gastão (PSD-CE), the rapporteur, has proposed reducing the maximum workweek to 40 hours in his report, yet a consensus required for a vote has not yet been achieved. This legislative inertia highlights the deep divisions and varied interests at play within the commission, requiring careful negotiation.
A similar constitutional amendment proposal (PEC) has already secured approval from the Senate’s Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) and now awaits deliberation in the plenary. However, the proposed reduction in working hours faces significant opposition from parliamentarians aligned with the productive sector, who express concerns about potential negative economic impacts on businesses and overall productivity.
Hugo Motta has advocated for a balanced and “non-ideological” discussion surrounding the 6×1 work scale for the upcoming year, emphasizing the need for practical solutions over partisan divides. Nevertheless, changes to the work schedule and the implementation of zero-fare public transport are expected to be prominent themes actively explored during President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s (PT) re-election campaign.
App worker protections await legislative action
Another pressing labor-related issue awaiting deputies’ consideration involves the regulation of app-based delivery workers and drivers. A dedicated special commission extensively debated a project on this subject in 2025, yet the proposal has not proceeded to a vote. The delay underscores the complexity of establishing clear guidelines for the burgeoning gig economy.
The report by Deputy Augusto Coutinho (Republicans-PE) outlines provisions aimed at ensuring the autonomy of these professionals while also guaranteeing fundamental protections. Key aspects include setting a ceiling on retention rates by platform operators and establishing specific rules for social security coverage, addressing longstanding concerns regarding worker rights and benefits within the digital economy. These measures seek to balance the flexibility inherent in app-based work with necessary safeguards for economic stability.
Administrative reform’s uphill battle in an election year
Administrative reform, a key priority for Hugo Motta who seeks to define a lasting legacy for his tenure, is expected to encounter significant challenges in advancing through the Chamber during an electoral year. The political climate often renders comprehensive structural changes difficult, as legislators become more cautious about proposals that could have broad public impact. The reform’s progress, therefore, hinges critically on securing governmental support.
The executive branch, particularly the Ministry of Management and Public Innovation, has shown resistance to certain aspects of the changes proposed by Deputy Pedro Paulo (PSD-RJ), especially during this sensitive electoral period. Despite negotiations, the proposal has yet to garner full backing and complete adherence from the Executive. The governing coalition, moreover, remains openly critical of many suggested modifications, signaling a complex path forward for this ambitious reform.
