On Thursday, October 12, 2023, Cláudio Castro, the governor of Rio de Janeiro, issued a decree that establishes lifetime security for former governors of the state through a dedicated team of active military personnel and official vehicles. This decree amends a law approved by the Legislative Assembly of Rio (Alerj) in 2025, which previously granted security for only four years post-term. This extension raises concerns regarding the financial impact on the state's budget, as the exact costs are still unclear.

Under the new arrangement, each former governor will be entitled to a security team consisting of four active military members, two drivers, and two official vehicles available for daily use. The former governors will be allowed to provide names for the military personnel assigned to them, while the operational schedule will be managed by the Institutional Security Cabinet (GSI). The decision comes against the backdrop of rising concerns over organized crime in the state, which Castro cites as a reason for enhancing security protocols for former officials.

This decree can be seen as part of broader security measures in response to the escalating violence and organized crime activities in Rio de Janeiro. While it may provide necessary protection for former governors, it also raises questions about the potential strain on state resources and the prioritization of security spending at a time when public safety is a pressing issue for ordinary citizens. The implications of this policy will likely spark debate within the state about resource allocation and the perceived need for high-level officials to have extended protections after they leave office.