A law in Rondônia, Brazil, allows women to use pepper spray for personal defense, specifying rules for purchase and distribution, especially for domestic violence victims.
In January 2026, a law was enacted in Rondônia to permit and regulate the use of pepper spray by women as a means of personal defense against violence. This legislation emerged from the state assembly's approval and aims to empower women, particularly in light of rising concerns regarding domestic violence. The law delineates who is eligible to purchase the spray and provides for free distribution to victims of domestic violence who have restraining orders in place, aiming to increase safety measures for vulnerable populations.
According to the law, only women over the age of 18 can buy pepper spray at authorized establishments, where they must present a photo ID. Additionally, minors aged 16 and older may own the spray with formal consent from their legal guardians. This inclusion of younger demographics acknowledges that self-defense tools can be important for their safety, particularly in environments that may not be entirely secure.
The law also sets clear purchasing limitations, allowing individuals to acquire up to two pepper spray units per month, with each canister sized no larger than 50 milliliters. No medical prescription is necessary for the purchase; however, it is vital that sellers comply with the regulations outlined to prevent misuse. This legal development is significant not only for its immediate impact on women's rights and safety in Rondônia but could also serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar issues of violence against women.
