Commission approves measure for the safety of rural workers

The Labor Committee of the Chamber of Deputies approved Bill 3263/23, to require employers to adopt minimum distances between the homes or accommodation of rural workers and plantations and deposits of agricultural pesticides stored or applied on farms.

The approved proposal amends the Rural Labor Law and also establishes that minimum distances must follow the relevant technical standards and guidelines from manufacturers of agricultural pesticides.

The rapporteur, Congressman Daniel Almeida, recommended the approval of the text. “This measure, together with others already established, will increase the safety of workers, as it will reduce risks,” he argued.

“Exposure to pesticides can cause health problems for workers, including cancer, hormonal disorders, neurological damage and developmental problems,” said the author of the proposal, Congressman Túlio Gadêlha.

Next Steps

The bill is currently being processed in a conclusive manner and will still be analyzed by the Constitution and Justice and Citizenship Committee. To become law, it will have to be approved by the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.