Brazil Senate Passes Law Expanding Protections for Rescued Domestic Workers

The Brazilian Senate approved a new law that grants domestic workers rescued from conditions akin to slavery a set of social and protective benefits. Eligible victims will receive six installments of unemployment insurance equal to a minimum‑wage salary, priority access to the Bolsa Família program, and assistance from public services.

The legislation also introduces protective orders similar to those in the Maria da Penha law, allowing judges to ban abusers from homes or workplaces and to prohibit contact with victims and their families. It revises inspection rules so that fiscal auditors can enter residences with the worker’s consent, even if the worker lives on site. The bill, reported by Senator Paulo Paim, notes that more than 2,000 people were rescued in 2025—a 27% rise from the previous year—most of whom are Black women with low or no schooling. The measure now awaits presidential sanction.