President Jair Bolsonaro signed an executive order on Tuesday (7) that expands the right to bear arms to 20 professions in Brazil. Politicians, truckers, people who live in rural areas, and even some journalists are among the groups included in the decree.
It will also expand the use of high-power arms, formerly restricted to security forces.
This relaxation of gun rules, a Bolsonaro campaign promise, has received criticism from various sectors. Analysts think the executive branch is ignoring studies that associate a higher rate of gun violence with easier access to arms.
Members of Bolsonaro's government even view the decree with reservations. Justice minister Sergio Moro does not think that it serves a public security need. He said that Bolsonaro is honoring a campaign promise.
Congress will evaluate the decree's constitutionality, said house leader Rodrigo Maia (DEM). The opposition is calling for the legislature to stop the decree.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon