Shielded by the STF, 'penduricalho' boosts salaries and pays R$ 31 million to state prosecutors in SP

Estadão sheds light on the substantial payments received by state prosecutors in São Paulo, Brazil, through a benefit known as 'abono permanência' (permanence bonus). In March alone, R$ 31.5 million was disbursed to 908 prosecutors, effectively circumventing the salary cap for public servants, which is tied to the salaries of Supreme Federal Court (STF) ministers. This practice raises questions about public spending and the fairness of compensation for public officials.

The 'abono permanência' is intended for public servants who are eligible for retirement but opt to remain in service. Notably, this bonus is not subject to social security contributions, although income tax is applied. The State Attorney General's Office defends these payments, characterizing them as 'indemnification of accumulated rights' of an 'eventual and extraordinary nature,' rather than regular income. However, the figures show that a significant portion of prosecutors, 62.7% in March, earned above the constitutional salary cap due to these bonuses.

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The values mentioned refer to the indemnification of accumulated rights, of an eventual and extraordinary nature, and therefore do not constitute recurring remuneration.

From a Brazilian perspective, particularly in São Paulo, this issue touches upon a long-standing debate about the compensation of public officials and the use of 'penduricalhos' (extra financial benefits). Estadão's reporting aims to provide transparency on public expenditure, highlighting how certain benefits, even if legally permissible, can lead to outcomes that appear excessive to the public. The article contrasts the salary cap for prosecutors with that of other state careers and points out that even the State Attorney General received a significant sum through this bonus. This reporting serves to inform citizens about the financial workings of their government and to foster discussion on fiscal responsibility and equity in public service compensation.

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The payments mentioned were made in strict compliance with the legal order.