Protests erupt in Brazil over controversial 20-year austerity plan

Fierce protests erupted in 15 Brazilian cities Tuesday as the country's Senate approved a controversial 20-year austerity plan.

Known as PEC 55, the constitutional amendment imposes a cap on public spending that will limit federal investment in social programs for the next 20 years.

Brazil's Senate approved the spending bill 53 to 16, and it is expected to become law Thursday.

Brazilian President Michael Temer praised the move, referring to the bill as the "first amendment aimed at getting the country out of recession."

The government hopes that the spending cap, combined with a proposed pension reform, will lure investors back to Brazil, bringing an end to the worst recession in decades.

But a recent poll from Datafolha showed that 60% of Brazilians are opposed to the amendment over fears that crucial education and health budgets will be affected.

News Courtesy: www.cnn.com