Bahia and Ceará implement free transport for 2026 elections

The Brazilian states of Bahia and Ceará have implemented free public transportation measures to facilitate voter movement during the second round of the 2026 elections on October 25.

In Bahia, Governor Jerônimo Rodrigues issued a decree extending free intermunicipal bus services from Friday evening (October 23) until Monday noon (October 26). The measure also covers ferry-boats, metropolitan buses, and the metro. To use the free intermunicipal buses, passengers must present a voter registration document or proof of voting location, along with identification, and must present proof of voting when returning.

In Ceará, State Law No. 19.056/2024 guarantees free urban, intermunicipal, and rail transport, including buses, vans, metro, and light rail vehicles (VLTs). Unlike Bahia, the Ceará metro system allows access without requiring specific documentation to prove voting location. Officials noted that these measures aim to reduce voter abstention caused by financial or geographic barriers.