Lula's New Environmental Law Sparks Debate
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed a law easing environmental licensing but vetoed 63 provisions to maintain project integrity. The original bill was supported by agribusiness but criticized by environmentalists. A new proposal will address legal uncertainties created by vetoed sections while protecting indigenous rights.
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- Brazil
In a significant move, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has signed legislation that aims to ease the environmental licensing requirements for new projects. However, notably, he has vetoed 63 specific provisions. This decision comes amid widespread critique from environmental groups who dubbed the original proposal the "devastation bill."
The president's vetoes were strategically aimed at maintaining the integrity of the licensing process. Additionally, they seek to provide legal certainty for upcoming projects, protect the rights of indigenous and Quilombola communities, and streamline procedural steps, as stated by Miriam Belchior, the executive secretary of the president's office.
In response to the leftover challenges posed by the vetoes, the government announced plans to submit new legislation to Congress under a constitutional urgency procedure. This move aims to cover the gaps and prevent any potential legal uncertainties, ensuring that environmental standards and community rights remain robust.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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