Brazil Congress evaluates Judiciary reforms and ethics codes

The Brazilian Congress is evaluating several legislative proposals aimed at reforming the Judiciary and establishing stricter ethical standards for public officials.

One proposal, Bill 2999/26, introduced by Deputy José Medeiros, suggests a ten-year quarantine period for appointments to superior courts and regulatory agencies. This measure would prevent individuals who have held political offices—such as ministers, state or municipal secretaries, or party leadership roles—from assuming these positions, aiming to ensure institutional neutrality and prevent political interference in judicial and regulatory functions.

Additionally, a Constitutional Amendment Proposal (PEC) authored by Senator Eduardo Braga has gathered sufficient signatures and seeks to establish a code of conduct for all public agents, including members of the Judiciary and Legislature. This PEC includes provisions to prevent conflicts of interest, such as prohibiting contracts with entities under an official's jurisdiction and restricting family members from maintaining business ties with large companies under their oversight.

A third proposal, articulated by Deputy Danilo Forte, focuses on reforming the Judiciary by introducing rotation in Supreme Federal Court (STF) appointments and restricting monocratic decisions.