Federal government extends People’s Gas program until 2031

The government issued a Provisional Measure this Monday (9) extending the Gás do Povo program until November 2031, which ensures free refilling of LPG cylinders (13 kg) at accredited resellers for more than 15 million families.

Launched in 2021, the program would expire this month if it was not renewed. The number of annual refills varies from 4 to 6 cylinders, depending on the size of the family.

In the Provisional Measure published this Monday, which must be reviewed by the National Congress, the government says that budget credits will be allocated for its execution.

On its website, the Ministry of Development and Social Assistance (MDS) informs that the program integrates public policies to strengthen families' access to basic rights such as health and food security.

"By offering free cylinders, the Program seeks to reduce dependence on harmful alternative fuels, such as firewood, and thus improve the quality of life, especially for women and children, who are most exposed to the risks of household pollution and accidents", says the government.

The government reserved R$7.63 billion in the 2027 Annual Budget Bill (PLOA) for People's Gas, which has yet to be evaluated by the Legislature.

The budget is part of the action "Promotion of Access to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for Low-Income Families" and provides for the service of around 15.4 million families.

Who is entitled

To be entitled to the Gás do Povo Program, the family must be registered in the Single Registry (CadÚnico), with an updated registration for at least 24 months, and have a monthly per capita family income equal to or less than half the minimum wage.

The Program prioritizes Bolsa Família beneficiary families and those with two or more people in their composition. It is essential that the Family Guardian keeps the CPF regularized and updated in CadÚnico.

How to receive

To receive the benefit, the government says that the family must meet the eligibility criteria and have their CadÚnico updated.

The selection of families, explained MDS, is done automatically. "Once selected, the family will receive a voucher for free refilling of the gas cylinder, which can be used at accredited resellers", he explained.

Removing the cylinder can be done in three ways:

Bolsa Família Bank Card (with chip);

CAIXA Debit Card;

Via the beneficiary's CPF and validation code on their cell phone;