The Regional Government of the Azores published, in the Official Journal of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, Ordinance No. 123-A/2025, of November 7, which regulates the granting of temporary, repayable financial assistance of a social nature, corresponding to the advance payment of wages in arrears to workers assigned to the United States Forces in the Azores (USFORAZORES), at Lajes Air Base, Terceira Island.

This exceptional and temporary measure aims to mitigate the economic and social effects of the foreign employer’s suspension of salary payments, ensuring that workers maintain their usual income until the situation is resolved.

The ordinance defines the maximum funding amount, the rules for managing contracts concluded by the Azores Social Security Institute (ISSA, IPRA), and the procedure for granting support, in accordance with Government Council Resolution No. 149-A/2025 of November 5. The support corresponds to the net remuneration in arrears for the period of wages between September 7 and 20, 2025, until normal remuneration processing by the employer is restored. The amounts advanced must be repaid in full within a maximum of ten working days after receipt of the corresponding remuneration.

With the entry into force of the Ordinance, workers assigned to USFORAZORES can, starting tomorrow, November 10, voluntarily go to ISSA or IPRA to begin the process of requesting support.

The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, highlighted that the commitment and dedication of these professionals “remained unchanged,” emphasizing “the resilience and spirit of the Azorean cause.”

For the governor, the Government of the Republic “has shown an unacceptable lack of interest in the Azoreans who serve the country in a crucial role for international security and stability.” This solution, he added, “makes it clear that the Regional Government is acting, is present, and is fulfilling its governmental duties to the Azorean people.”

In Correio dos Açores-Natalino Viveiros, director

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.