The Senate’s Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) approved a report on Wednesday (19) by a vote of 14 to 12, regarding a bill proposing gambling and casino legalization, such as bingo and “jogo do bicho” (a type of lottery), in Brazil. The matter will now be sent to the full Senate.
Bill 2.234/2022 originated from the House of Representatives, where it was approved, and has been under consideration in the Senate since 2022. The proposal includes provisions to allow the establishment of casinos in tourist hubs or integrated leisure complexes, such as high-end hotels (with at least 100 rooms), restaurants, bars, and venues for meetings and cultural events.
The project also proposes the potential issuance of a casino license for each state and the Federal District. Some states would have exceptions, such as São Paulo, which could have up to three casinos, and Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, Amazonas, and Pará, which could have up to two each if the project is approved. The justification for these exceptions was based on population size or territory.
The Positive Economic and Cultural Impacts
Senator Rogério Carvalho (PT-SE) emphasized casinos’ economic and cultural importance for many Brazilian municipalities, supporting the project. “We know the importance that the Casino da Urca, which operated in Rio de Janeiro until gambling was banned, had,” he noted. “How many cities lost relevance and importance because this type of gambling activity was prohibited?” he added. He argued that gambling should be regulated so the state can control and tax the activity.
According to the project’s rapporteur, Senator Irajá (PSD-TO), casinos could generate 700,000 direct jobs. They could also generate 600,000 indirect jobs. Additionally, they are expected to boost tourism.”What, after all, is the fear of facing this issue?” Irajá asked.
Gambling and Casino Legalization Opposition
During the CCJ session, most of the remarks came from senators opposing the project. One of the main arguments presented was the impact on the healthcare system, which would have to address an increase in gambling addiction, according to senators from parties like PL and Novo.
Senator Magno Malta (PL-ES) cited the example of the United States, where the legalization of casinos created an environment conducive to prostitution, drug use, and the mafia. Marcos Rogério (PL-RO) reinforced this argument. “We are facing a pandemic [of gambling addiction] today.”
Gambling in Brazil has been prohibited since 1946.
Font: Agência Brasil
Want to know more about the iGaming and online casino business? Talk to our team and discover a great investment opportunity in the gaming industry for you.
