Teto de gastos: uma discussão sobre a participação do Estado na economia

Abstract

The present work is constituted as an evaluation of the debate between heterodox and orthodox economists on the PEC of the Ceiling of Spending. We sought to evaluate the consequences pointed out by each vision as resulting from this measure. Orthodoxy understands excessive public spending as the main determinant of the public deficit, claiming, therefore, that it is necessary to reduce government spending and, consequently, less state intervention in the economy. On the other hand, heterodox economists claim that the Brazilian fiscal deficit is due to structural problems in the national economy, understanding that greater state action is necessary to solve such problems. In addition, heterodoxy points out that the restriction of public spending harms the country's level of investment, as well as the quality of public services provided to the less favored population. In order to better understand the roots of each group's vision, this work analyzes the main theoretical assumptions of these two strands of thought. It is understood that this is a healthy debate and that it makes it possible to evaluate and improve the PEC of the Expenditure Ceiling, especially with regard to its impacts on social assistance. In addition, a reassessment of the measure is suggested, since it represented an abrupt change in the way the Brazilian State was organized, which made economic recovery difficult in the face of the current economic and public health crisis, thus preventing it from materializing. the objectives pursued by the supporters of the Spending Ceiling PEC.