What was supposed to be resolved in August was practically November and close to the end of the year break. Bill 2,234 of 2022, called PL dos Cassinos, was almost being voted on in the Federal Senate. However, they postponed the vote again until after the October municipal elections. The decision to postpone the vote took place last Thursday (08), during a meeting of leaders.
Casinos bill presents opposing points of view
But why the controversy? The text of the Casinos bill proposes the regulation of gambling and betting in Brazil. The proposal, already approved by the Chamber of Deputies and the Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) of the Senate, now faces scrutiny from senators. The vote in the CCJ was close, with 14 votes in favor and 12 against, highlighting the division in Congress on the issue.
The debate over the Casinos PL has divided opinions. The project’s rapporteur, senator Irajá (PSD-TO), defends approval, among other reasons, for:
- Increase your revenue not only from the Union but also from the states
- Attract more foreign tourists
- Create more direct and indirect jobs in the construction and maintenance of casinos
In other words, the senator belongs to the wing that is in favor of legalizing casinos in resorts. These luxury hotels would be responsible for boosting the country’s economy.
But, on the other hand, senators like Eduardo Girão (Novo-CE) view legalization with concern and the impacts will be more negative than positive. Among the concerns are:
- The increase in crimes, especially money laundering
- Drug trafficking
- Exploitation of prostitution
- Gaming addiction can lead to other social problems
Attempts at legalization have been going on for decades
The discussion about the legalization of casinos in Brazil is not new. The topic has been on the agenda for more than 30 years in Congress. The Casino Bill is not limited to just the legalization of casinos in high-end resorts and hotels. The proposal also covers the legalization of gambling, bingo and horse racing tracks.
With voting scheduled for after the elections, the future of PL dos Cassinos remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the debate over the benefits and risks of legalizing gambling remains in the spotlight.
