Brazilian Cities Propose Maternity Benefits for Doctors and Pregnant Women

In Salvador, councilor Daniel Alves (PSDB) introduced a municipal bill that would grant maternity protection to doctors hired as independent contractors (PJ). The proposal allows a temporary suspension of up to 120 days, with a compensation payment equal to the average of the doctor’s earnings over the previous 12 months, while preserving the existing contractual model and avoiding the creation of standard employment rights.

In the municipality of Serrinha, a separate bill called “Bolsa Bebê” seeks to provide a cash benefit of up to R$5,100 per family for pregnant women. The assistance would be paid as R$300 per month from the fifth month of pregnancy until the child turns one year old, provided the mother follows public prenatal care, resides in Serrinha, keeps the child’s vaccinations up to date, and gives birth in a municipal or SUS‑accredited health facility. Both initiatives aim to improve maternal health support and maintain continuity of public health services.