The economic regulation of Brazilian intermunicipal coach transport (TIPO): contributions that may arise from the Courts of Accounts role

Brazilian inter-municipal coach transport (TIPO) has traditionally been run by private enterprises, subjected to public delegation, without public subsidies. Public management and regulation of this activity has been carried out by public road institutions or by public transport entities. However, recent reforms have changed these circumstances and many states have set up regulatory agencies, which still suffer lack of independence and effective power and practice. This paper points out the theoretical and legal aspects that describe this means of transport as a public service and shows how the sector has been managed, regulated and controlled by the government of some states. The analysis has indicated that the sector has gained little attention from the public sector. It is also shown some alternatives that might contribute to tackle many problems that arise from the sector. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E215911.