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House Of Representatives Advances On Bill That Punishes Companies For Racism And Discrimination Against Consumers.
House Of Representatives Approves Advancement In Consumer Rights
The Human Rights Committee of the House of Representatives approved a Bill that holds companies responsible for acts of discrimination and racism committed against consumers.
The decision took place in Brasília this week and aims to strengthen consumer rights, ensuring protection in situations of prejudice during consumer relationships.
The proposal stipulates that suppliers are liable even when they do not have direct involvement in the discriminatory conduct.
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This text establishes a clear obligation: companies must prevent, monitor, and remedy damages caused by prejudiced attitudes of their employees or service providers.
How The Bill Protects Consumers Victims Of Racism
The text requires suppliers to implement prevention policies against discrimination and racism. Among the measures are the provision of accessible reporting channels, monitoring the behavior of their employees, and conducting ongoing training for everyone who interacts with the public.
These programs must include outsourced workers, ensuring that a culture of respect is applied in all areas of the company.
Thus, the project seeks to prevent cases of embarrassment, prejudice, and symbolic violence against consumers.
Expanded Consumer Rights Against Abusive Practices
In addition to direct accountability, the Bill amends the Consumer Defense Code to classify any embarrassing approach or search based on color, ethnicity, or other personal characteristics as abusive practice.
This inclusion represents a milestone in the fight against discrimination and reinforces the dignity of the consumer as a central principle in consumer relationships.
With this change, situations of embarrassment now have a firmer legal backing, enhancing the defense power of victims.
Reporter Inserts International Definition Of Racism
The original proposal, authored by Deputy Gisela Simona (União-MT), received amendments from the reporter, Deputy Daiana Santos (PCdoB-RS).
In the approved substitute, Daiana included a paragraph that defines racial discrimination, multiple discrimination, and racism according to the Inter-American Convention Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, and Related Forms of Intolerance.
“By objectively holding suppliers accountable and requiring the adoption of preventive and corrective measures, the project strengthens the protection of individuals who are victims of discrimination, contributing to social peace,” said Daiana Santos in defense of the proposal’s importance.
With this change, the future law will have a solid international basis, which enhances its legitimacy and reach.
Direct Impacts For Companies And Consumers
If definitively approved, the Bill in the House of Representatives will have an immediate impact on consumer relationships.
For consumers, it represents more protection in cases of racism and discrimination, ensuring reparations and respect.
For companies, it requires investments in training, reporting channels, and monitoring programs, under threat of objective liability.
This advancement strengthens not only consumer rights but also the need for the private sector to take an active responsibility in combating racism.
Next Steps For The Bill
The proposal will proceed for analysis in the Consumer Defense and Constitution, Justice, and Citizenship (CCJ) committees. The processing will occur in a conclusive manner, which means that if approved in these instances, it will go directly to the Senate, without the need for a vote in plenary.
The topic is expected to generate broad debate as it touches on essential points: the protection of human dignity and the fight against discrimination in consumer relationships.
Agency Câmara de Notícias
