Rio de Janeiro legislative and fiscal developments

The Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro (ALERJ) is debating the 2027 Annual Budget Law Project and the 2024–2027 Multi-Year Plan revision. Acting Governor Ricardo Couto has estimated a fiscal deficit of approximately 13.98 billion reais, with total expenses projected at 138.37 billion reais against 124.39 billion reais in net revenue. This imbalance is attributed to a reduction in oil royalties and a 9.64 billion reais increase in personnel expenses. The proposal includes adherence to the State Debt Full Payment Program (Propag) to refinance debt with the federal government, allocating 2.28 billion reais to sectors such as sanitation, transport, and public security.

Within ALERJ, political maneuvering has intensified as Deputy Anderson Moraes has declared his candidacy for the presidency of the House.

In local governance, the Rio de Janeiro City Council is observing a 30 day period before appointing a substitute for councilor Fábio Silva, who was arrested during a police operation. Per internal regulations, automatic removal occurs on the 31st day following the arrest decree, with Professor Marcelo Martins identified as the first eligible substitute. Meanwhile, in Angra dos Reis, the Rio de Janeiro State Court has suspended the removal of councilor Greg Duarte. This decision allows the lawmaker to potentially resume duties while his legal team challenges the revocation process, alleging violations of due process and constitutional guarantees.

Additionally, a working group continues to investigate pollution in the Una River basin following reports of foam and odors in the Lakes Region.