Lula Makes Move Brasil Program Permanent, Expands Financing for Drivers and School Transporters

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has sanctioned the Move Brasil program as permanent legislation, providing a substantial R$ 30 billion fund for vehicle financing aimed at supporting app drivers, taxi drivers, delivery workers, and newly included school transport drivers across Brazil. Initially created as a provisional measure, the program now features legal backing and a suite of expanded benefits.

Key changes include a reduction of the minimum activity period required for app drivers from 12 to 6 months, with eligibility granted by proving at least 100 completed rides on the same platform. The maximum price for financed vehicles has been increased from R$ 150,000 to R$ 200,000, and the repayment term extended from 72 to 84 months, which includes a grace period of six months before repayments commence. Interest rates are differentiated by gender, set at 11.5% per annum for women and 12.6% for men.

The program is financed through R$ 30 billion allocated from the National Fund for Social Infrastructure Investment (FIIS) to institutions including BNDES, Banco do Brasil, and Caixa Econômica Federal. BNDES will manage the funds according to demand from eligible workers.

Since its inception, Move Brasil has facilitated the sale of over 48,000 cars and 19,000 motorcycles, significantly lowering rental costs for drivers and supporting asset acquisition among workers previously dependent on vehicle rentals. It also includes provisions for vehicle adaptations for people with disabilities and plans to regulate financing for school transport and utility vehicles, advancing broader social inclusion.

President Lula emphasized the program’s societal importance during the signing ceremony at the Palácio do Planalto, highlighting that it provides critical support for low-income and marginalized workers, enabling them to build personal assets and improve their livelihoods. Minister of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade Elias and Minister of the Secretariat of the Presidency Guilherme Boulos also underlined the program's positive economic and environmental impacts, including support for electric and hybrid vehicle financing.

Eligibility applications are processed through the gov.br website, with feedback promised within ten days, facilitating smoother access. Despite initial concerns about program uptake, adjustments such as lowered eligibility thresholds and extended financing terms aim to maximize participation and benefits.

In summary, Move Brasil stands as a landmark public investment initiative, combining economic, social, and environmental goals to empower Brazil’s transport workers and stimulate the automotive sector just weeks ahead of the presidential election.