The Tribunal de Contas da União (TCU) has mandated that Brazil's Ministry of Education (MEC) halt financial disbursements from the Pé-de-Meia program to beneficiaries whose CPF numbers are linked to deceased individuals, specifically those who passed away between 2009 and 2023. This decision is aimed at eliminating fraudulent claims within the incentive program, which is designed to support secondary school students financially. Furthermore, the MEC is required to block any funds that have already been deposited into savings accounts of these beneficiaries, with a timeline of 60 days to complete the necessary actions.

In addition to addressing past disbursements, the TCU's order also includes the suspension of financial incentives intended for students who are identified as deceased in the years 2024 and 2025. The Pé-de-Meia program, which was created in 2024, aims to reduce school dropout rates and tackle inequality in access to higher education and the job market by providing eligible secondary students with a monthly incentive of R$ 200. The cessation of payments to deceased beneficiaries is seen as a critical measure to enhance the integrity of the program and ensure that aid reaches those who genuinely need it.

This intervention highlights continued efforts by the TCU and MEC to implement proper oversight and governance in federal programs aimed at supporting education. As the program is designed to battle school dropout rates and promote equity, these measures align with Brazil’s broader goals of fostering educational advancement and socioeconomic mobility. The requirement for the MEC to review cases with indications of a family income above set thresholds also reflects an attempt to target assistance more accurately, ensuring that the benefits are directed towards truly deserving students.