Brazil bill proposes BPC protection for caregivers

A new bill presented to the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies by Deputy Rafael Prudente aims to protect the Continuous Provision Benefit (BPC) for families of people with disabilities. The proposal ensures that if a parent, legal guardian, or caregiver registers as a Microentrepreneur Individual (MEI) or engages in economic activity, the benefit will not be automatically suspended or denied.

A key feature of the bill is a 24-month transition period. During these first two years, income earned by the caregiver—up to two minimum wages per month—would not be factored into the per capita family income calculation used to determine BPC eligibility. The bill also prevents the mere existence of a CNPJ (business registration) from being used as sole evidence that a family is no longer in a vulnerable state. Additionally, it establishes a simplified process to reinstate benefits if the caregiver's income subsequently decreases or ceases.