After the 2024 elections, state deputies Marina Helou (Rede-SP) and Lohanna França (PV-MG) shared their experiences and reflections on working in the Legislative Branch during a RenovaBR class. The two parliamentarians brought to light the challenges and strategies needed to transform legislative work into an effective tool for social change and the advancement of public policies.

The powers of the state legislature

Deputy Marina Helou addressed the mistaken perception that the state legislature has only residual powers and little impact, highlighting that, despite the focus often being on meeting municipal demands, there is a vast field of opportunities to promote transformations. 

“We were able to approve the state policy for early childhood and the law that prioritizes the investigation of child and adolescent homicides in the State of São Paulo,” said Marina. The parliamentarian also mentioned the approval of the law that prohibits the use of cell phones in schools as an example of the impact that the Legislature can have in seeking social development and reducing inequalities.

Marina emphasized the need to monitor the government and jointly articulate solutions, highlighting collaboration as a fundamental pillar of her mandate. “We look closely at what the state government is doing. We demand action, halt erroneous initiatives and promote what needs to grow,” she explained. According to her, it is possible to act efficiently and transparently, combating corruption and showing that it is feasible to transform the system.

Relationship between the legislature and municipal employees

Lohanna França shared practical experiences about the importance of relationships with municipal employees as a source of essential information for monitoring and acting in the Legislative Branch. “I recommend building a relationship with the city’s employees’ union. Employees are a valuable source for knowing what is really happening in the city hall,” she said. For her, the partnership with employees allows for a deeper look at municipal management, helping to understand what is happening behind the scenes and monitor possible irregularities.

Lohanna also stressed the importance of the quota for elected women and the recent change by the TSE, which determined that 30% of the electoral fund be allocated to female candidates. “Until 2022, we were 30% of the ticket, but we did not receive proportional resources. With the new regulation, I was able to run my campaign,” she recalled. For her, the progress represents an important victory for female participation in politics, and it is essential to continue promoting changes that guarantee effective representation.

The deputy from Minas Gerais also left a message of encouragement for the substitutes present at the class. “You have leadership, votes and political capital. It is something great, regardless of the result,” she said, reinforcing the importance of not giving up on public life, even in the face of electoral defeats.

The event “Political Movements in the Legislature” sought to encourage participants to develop their leadership skills through personal strengthening, with a focus on more effective political action. It is part of the Post-Election Trail, an exclusive program created for the RenovaBR Alumni Community with the aim of developing key skills and identifying new possibilities for action.

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