Brazil's Congress seeks Bolsa Família rule change for disabled caregivers

Deputy Jadyel Alencar (Republicanos‑PI) has introduced Project Law 393/26 in the Chamber of Deputies. The bill would exclude the Benefício de Prestação Continuada (BPC) from the income calculation used to determine eligibility for Bolsa Família when a family member with a disability requires a caregiver. Law 14.601/23 currently counts BPC as family income, often pushing households above the per‑capita limit. The proposal argues that BPC replaces the caregiver’s earnings, typically a parent who leaves the labor market to provide care. It also proposes a R$200 reduction in the Benefício Complementar for single‑person families, while maintaining the benefit for people with disabilities or permanent work incapacity. The measure is under commission review and must be approved by both the Chamber and the Senate before becoming law.

Separate articles outline how people with autism can access the BPC. Under the LOAS, individuals up to 18 years old (or over 65) may qualify if family per‑capita income is below one‑quarter of the minimum wage and a medical report confirms the condition. Applicants must submit identification, birth certificates, residence proof and the medical report to a CRAS office or the INSS website. Families often face bureaucratic hurdles, lack of information and social stigma, making the assistance essential for their livelihood.