In Brazil, the Federal Regional Court of the 3rd Region (TRF-3) has overturned lower court injunctions that allowed certain operators to suspend compliance with new meal voucher and food voucher regulations under the Worker Food Program (PAT). The court's ruling reinstates the enforcement of a decree that reforms the sector, compelling affected companies to follow the updated requirements until the final adjudication of the cases at hand. This includes regulations that aim to limit service fees charged by operators, expedite the transfer of funds to retail establishments, and ensure that any meal voucher card is accepted by any payment machine.

The new measures, effective as of February 10, address critical issues raised by the government, particularly regarding the uniform implementation of public policy in the meal and food voucher sector. The appeal to lift the injunctions was led by the Advocate General of the Union (AGU), who warned that failing to apply these regulations could disrupt the economic stability and order in the country. The court's ruling is seen as a significant step towards ensuring fairness and accessibility for beneficiaries of the program, which is crucial for many workers in Brazil.

The potential implications of this decision are vast, affecting not just the companies involved but also the numerous individuals who rely on these benefits for their daily sustenance. By enforcing these changes, the Brazilian government aims to create a more effective and reliable system that better serves workers, aligning with broader efforts to enhance social welfare and economic stability across the nation.