Brazil President Lula signs law boosting protection for rescued domestic workers

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva approved Law 15.455/26, which expands safeguards for domestic workers rescued from conditions of forced labour. The legislation grants priority access to Bolsa Família, increases the number of unemployment‑insurance installments from three to six, and creates protective measures modelled on the Maria da Penha law, such as restraining orders against aggressors and emergency social assistance.

It also raises penalties for violence against domestic workers, authorises workplace inspections when the employee lives on‑site, and strengthens oversight of the sector. Official data show 2,772 rescues in 2025 – a 26.8 % rise over 2024. The president vetoed a provision that would have mandated judges to automatically include victims in the unemployment‑benefit program, citing concerns about administrative delays. The law now awaits possible congressional action on the veto.