Brazilian states legislate caps on public spending for artistic performances

The Minas Gerais state legislature approved Bill 5.764/26, setting a maximum fee of R$700,000 for performances financed with state resources and R$500,000 for those funded by municipalities, with an additional limit of R$150,000 for artist transport and accommodation. The measure also requires contracts to be posted on a transparency portal, mandates that at least 5% of the highest fee be allocated to local artists, and includes penalties for non‑compliance.

In Bahia, a draft law introduced by Deputy Luciano Ribeiro proposes uniform rules for hiring artists with public money. It keeps the possibility of non‑competitive hiring when necessary but obliges officials to justify that fees match market rates and to disclose all related costs, including travel, lodging and production. The proposal applies to state and municipal budgets of any origin and emphasizes constitutional principles such as morality, publicity and economic efficiency. The bill is awaiting committee review before reaching a plenary vote.