The expansion of female presence in the labor market gained new momentum in the state of Rio with the approval in the Legislative Assembly (Alerj) this Tuesday (05), in second discussion, of a proposal that establishes a public policy aimed at promoting equal opportunities.
The measure establishes guidelines to reduce wage inequalities and encourage the inclusion, retention, and professional advancement of women. The approved text foresees the adoption of initiatives in both the public and private sectors, focusing on expanding access to jobs, training, and leadership positions.
Training and encouragement for leadership.
Among the planned actions are professional training programs aimed at women, especially in areas such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The proposal also encourages female presence in leadership positions and decision-making spaces, seeking to expand participation in historically underserved sectors.
The text, which now goes to the Executive Branch for analysis, also includes measures to prevent and combat discriminatory practices, as well as moral and sexual harassment in the workplace.
Rules for businesses and the public sector
The proposal establishes that private companies with more than 50 employees, when seeking tax incentives or participating in public tenders, must adopt guidelines to promote gender equality. Among these is the reservation of a minimum of 30% of positions in internship, apprenticeship, and trainee programs for women.
State public administration bodies should also follow these guidelines, in addition to promoting training initiatives aimed primarily at women in situations of social vulnerability.
Work-life balance
Another aspect of the proposal addresses the creation of conditions that favor the reconciliation between professional life and family responsibilities. The measure seeks to encourage work environments that are more adapted to the reality of women, expanding opportunities for career retention and growth.
Companies that adopt these practices may receive the "Women-Friendly Company" Seal, provided for in state legislation, as a form of institutional recognition.
Inspection and penalties
The text stipulates that failure to comply with the measures by private companies may result, according to regulations, in the suspension of state tax incentives and the inability to renew the certification.
The author of the proposal, Representative Célia Jordão, stated that the initiative seeks to address persistent inequalities. “Despite the progress of recent decades, significant inequalities between men and women in the labor market still persist. Proposals like this contribute to reducing these distortions and expanding opportunities,” she said.
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