On Monday, Minister Gilmar Mendes of the Supreme Federal Court (STF) mandated that indemnity funds, colloquially known as 'penduricalhos', can only be disbursed to members of the Judiciary and the Public Ministry when such payments are expressly authorized by law passed by the National Congress. This decision aims to address concerns regarding the legality and appropriateness of additional remuneration for public officials, ensuring that all forms of financial compensation are transparently outlined in legislative acts. The term 'penduricalho' refers to various indemnity payments, bonuses, and allowances that supplement public employees' salaries, intended to cover expenses incurred while performing their duties or to compensate for unclaimed rights. Mendes' ruling emphasizes the necessity for accountability and strict adherence to the legal framework governing public remuneration, thereby restricting the Judiciary and Public Ministry from granting payments beyond what legislation permits. Furthermore, the ruling requires the National Justice Council (CNJ) and the National Public Ministry Council (CNMP) to focus solely on the regulation of existing laws, which should clearly outline the calculation basis, applicable percentages, and maximum limits of such benefits. This move is seen as part of a broader initiative to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency within Brazil's public sectors, particularly amidst ongoing debates concerning public spending and the remuneration of government officials.