The Legislative Assembly of São Paulo (Alesp) promulgated and published in the official diary from the state a law that recognizes religious activity as essential for the population, allowing the functioning of temples and churches during epidemics, pandemics and natural disasters.
The promulgation was made by deputy Wellington Moura (Republicans), 1st vice president in the exercise of the Presidency of Alesp. He assumed the role due to the inauguration of President Carlão Pignatari as acting governor.
The law has its origins in PL 299/2020, authored by deputies Gil Diniz (no party) and Gilmaci Santos (Republicans). The project was approved in December 2020, but received a total veto from Governor João Doria (PSDB) – overturned by lawmakers on Tuesday (2), during an extraordinary session.
According to the text, the state recognizes religious activities in the temples and outside them as an essential activity to be kept in crisis. The legislation also says that the Ministry of Health’s recommendations must be observed.
In the Covid-19 pandemic, the use of a mask and the recommendation to avoid agglomerations were some of the guidelines against the dissemination of the coronavirus.
“Churches rescue lives. The work that the State cannot do, the churches do. They assist people,” said Moura. “For us it is rewarding [a promulgação da lei]”, completed the 1st vice president.
(*With information from Julyanne Jucá)
Reference: CNN Brasil
