Amazonas government disputes Sinetram debt claims

The Amazonas state government and the Union of Passenger Transport Companies of the State of Amazonas (Sinetram) are in a legal and financial dispute regarding student transit subsidies. Sinetram claims the state owes more than R$ 279 million for student passes for 2025 and 2026, warning that the lack of payment threatens the continuity of the benefit and the ability of transport companies to meet labor obligations, including salaries and holiday bonuses.

Governor Roberto Cidade has labeled the threat to suspend free student transport as “irresponsible” and “political.” The governor maintains that the state is up to date with its monthly R$ 3 million payments for state school students, with the latest installment made on October 23. The government argues that the debt cited by the union pertains to 2025 and is currently being contested in court.

Furthermore, the administration is questioning previous contracts that established high subsidy values, advocating for payments based on actual student usage rather than older agreements. The state intends to take legal action to prevent any suspension of the student transit benefit.