The National Social Security Institute (INSS) began an investigation into how sports betting affects the expenses of its beneficiaries. This decision came after a Central Bank study revealed that Bolsa Família beneficiaries spent approximately R$3 billion on betting in August.
Alessandro Stefanutto, president of INSS, announced the initiative this week. The institute, which serves around 40 million people monthly, mainly retirees and individuals with disabilities, expresses concern about the financial impact of betting on these groups.
Concern about the beneficiaries’ budget
Although retirees generally do not face food insecurity like Bolsa Família beneficiaries, many live on limited budgets. Consequently, spending on gambling can become a significant problem.
In an interview with the Metrópoles portal, Stefanutto highlighted: “If you earn R$30,000 and want to spend R$5,000 on gambling, I don’t recommend it, but your financial health will not be disturbed.
Now, these people earn an average of R$1,900, they live on that to eat, pay for school for their grandchild. We have to check what is happening, carry out campaigns with our audience. The INSS can no longer act like this: ‘I gave you the benefit, I don’t want to see you here anymore’.”
Furthermore, the president demonstrated specific concern for beneficiaries of the Continuous Payment Benefit (BPC/LOAS), considered financially vulnerable.
INSS actions underway
The INSS is seeking more information from the Central Bank about the study that revealed the high volume of bets among beneficiaries. Furthermore, the institute is in contact with the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) to better understand the beneficiaries’ spending profile.
Based on this information, INSS plans to develop actions to minimize negative impacts on these citizens’ budgets. The initiative aims not only to understand the problem, but also to create effective solutions to protect the financial health of beneficiaries.
In short, INSS is taking proactive steps to investigate and address the impact of sports betting on its beneficiaries’ spending. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to protecting the financial well-being of millions of Brazilians who depend on the institute’s benefits.
