Projeto-de-Lei-propoe-redistribuicao-de-verba-das-apostas-esportivas-destinada-a-saude
Foto: Renato Araújo/Câmara dos Deputados

Congressman Ismael Alexandrino (PSD-GO) presented a legislative proposal that aims to change the distribution of resources arising from taxation of online bets. The project suggests a significant increase in the portion allocated to the Ministry of Health, from 1% to 10% of total revenue.

The initiative proposes a reduction in the amount directed to the tourism sector, which would fall from 28% to 19%. This change has the main objective of strengthening mental health programs and preventing gambling, known as gambling addiction.

Alexandrino argues that the current percentage of 1% is insufficient to face the growing challenge of health problems related to sports betting.

The deputy emphasizes the need for more robust investment to effectively protect the population’s health.

Impact of betting on public health

The bill aims to direct more resources to psychosocial care initiatives, recognizing the importance of addressing the potential consequences of the increase in online betting in Brazil.

This proposal reflects growing concern about the impact of sports betting on public health. The proposed redistribution aims to balance the economic interests of the betting sector with the responsibility of caring for the mental health of citizens.

Treasury has already announced the list of betting sites authorized to operate until December

It is worth remembering that the Ministry of Treasury updated the list of betting companies authorized to operate in Brazil until December at the beginning of this month. The national list now includes 96 companies and 210 betting websites. In addition, the state list has 18 companies.

Companies needed to request authorization from the Prizes and Betting Secretariat by September 17th to be on the list. Some companies, however, were left out of the first list released on October 1st, even though they made the request on time. While the initial list included 89 companies and 193 betting sites.

Therefore, the Federal Government asserts that the states themselves are responsible for their authorization decisions. However, these decisions must comply with federal legislation. The regulated market will come into force on January 1st, with only duly accredited bookmakers being able to operate and advertise in the country.