Dados is one of the most widely-read social sciences journals in Latin America. Created in 1966, it publishes innovative works, originating from academic research, by Brazilian and foreign authors. Edited by IESP-UERJ, it aims to reconcile scientific rigor and academic excellence with an emphasis on public debate based on the analysis of substantive issues of society and politics.
Dados vol. 45 n. 3 Rio de Janeiro 2002
Abstract
The article assesses the dynamics of the decision-making process of health policy in Brazil from the viewpoint of Executive-Legislative relations. It examines institutional mechanisms, negotiation strategies and political resources available to introduce, amend and regulate laws in this social arena. It shows that congressional capacity to refine laws proposed by the Executive branch is still limited (particularly due to both the Medidas Provisórias (Provisional Measure) and veto power of the Executive), but concludes that the legislative power of Presidents in the area of health must be tempered. After all, during the period under analysis (1985-1998), Congress displayed enough power to approve a growing number of bills and constitutional amendments in the area of health - significantly greater than the Executives.
Keywords: health policy, Executive and Legislative relations, decision-making process, democratic Brazil
DOI: 10.1590/S0011-52582002000300003
The presidents and the National Congress in the decision-making process of health policies in democratic Brazil (1985-1998)