Brazil's Chamber Approves FGTS Funding for Philanthropic Hospitals Until 2030

The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies approved Project Bill 2465/26, extending the use of Fundo de Garantia do Tempo de Serviço (FGTS) resources for credit operations aimed at philanthropic hospitals through 2030. The bill, authored by Deputy Paulo Pimenta (PT‑RS) and amended by rapporteur Deputy Antonio Brito (PSD‑BA), will now be sent to the Senate.

The measure renews a previously expiring provisional decree and allows hospitals that provide at least 60% of their services to the Unified Health System (SUS) to refinance debt at reduced rates, lowering annual interest from about 18% to roughly 12%. During the 2019‑2022 period, FGTS financed roughly R$ 3 billion across 134 loans for 140 philanthropic hospitals and 122 restructuring operations. The amendment also suspends tax liabilities for pending certification cases predating December 2021.

Supporters highlighted the importance for “Santas Casas,” which collectively carry around R$ 10 billion in debt, emphasizing that the renewed funding will help expand facilities, acquire equipment, and modernize surgical centers.