House of Representatives approves greater punishment for those who cause forest fire

A This Monday (2) took an important step in the fight against environmental crime by approving a bill that hardens the penalties for those who cause and other forms of vegetation. The proposal, which is still awaiting analysis of the Senate, provides for a significant increase in the penalty of imprisonment, from 2 to 4 years to 3 to 6 years, in addition to the application of fines. In addition, the text establishes that offenders will be prevented from hiring with the government for five years after the judgment has been res judicata. The project rapporteur, Deputy Patrus Ananias (PT-MG), emphasized that the measure seeks a more appropriate penalty for environmental crimes, covering criminal, administrative and economic liability of the offenders.

Environmental crime has profound impacts on sustainable economic development, aggravating social inequalities and impairing public health due to the emission of pollutants and the destruction of essential ecosystems. In this scenario, the intervention of criminal law is seen as a necessary and proportional measure to discourage these practices and ensure repair of damage caused. The project, however, makes an important caveat not to predict punishment for cases of controlled and prescribed burning, nor for traditional and adaptive uses aimed at proper environmental management.

The proposal still needs to be approved by the Senate so that it can come into force. It is expected that, with approval, there will be a significant discouragement to criminal fire practices, contributing to environmental preservation and the promotion of more sustainable development. The measure is seen as a crucial step in the fight against environmental crime in the country, reinforcing the commitment to the protection of natural resources and the health of the planet.

*With information from André Anelli

*Report produced with the aid of AI