What’s in store for the 2021 policy agenda in Congress?

Senator Rodrigo Pacheco, the favorite to lead the Senate President for the next two years. Photo: Roque de Sá/AS/CN

Following today’s congressional leadership election, lawmakers will begin the 2021 legislative year on February 3 with several pressing issues on the agenda. The absolute first priority is to approve this year’s federal budget, delayed at the end of 2020 due to an impasse in the lower house. Once that is cleared up, Congress is set to analyze 30 provisional decrees issued by the Executive branch, including one which would extend the coronavirus emergency aid program.

Elsewhere, lawmakers will continue debates initiated last year, such as those focusing on anti-racism legislation. And the result of today’s leadership election will play a significant part, as the incoming House Speaker and Senate President will be able to propose policy items of their choosing.

The Brazilian Report has prepared a list of compulsory and discretionary topics set to be on this year’s legislative agenda.

What’s at stake for 2021

2021 Annual Budget Law: As discussed by...

Beatriz Rey

Beatriz Rey is an SNF Agora Visiting Fellow at Johns Hopkins University and an APSA Congressional Fellow (2021-2022). She holds a Ph.D. in political science from Syracuse University and an M.A. in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.