The Senate may vote this week on the project that legalizes casinos, bingos and Jogo do Bicho. The proposal, already approved by the CCJ (Constitution and Justice Commission) and the Chamber of Deputies, should go to the plenary this Wednesday (04).
However, if necessary, it can be postponed until the following week.
Rules for casinos, bingos and Jogo do Bicho
The project proposes to repeal the 1946 law, which prohibits casino gambling in national territory. Furthermore, it will extinguish sections of the Criminal Offenses Law, which currently punishes the exploitation of these activities.
Therefore, the supervision and licensing of betting companies will be the responsibility of the Ministry of Treasury, guaranteeing more rigorous control.
The legislation provided for in the project provides detailed rules for each type of game:
1. Casinos:
- They must operate in leisure complexes, such as resorts and sea and river vessels.
- A minimum share capital of R$100 million is required.
- Licenses will be valid for 30 years.
- The casino area cannot exceed 20% of the total area of the resort.
2. Bingos:
- Licenses will be valid for 25 years.
- They can be installed in football stadiums or exclusive spaces for the activity.
- The rule provides for one license per 150,000 inhabitants in each city.
- Venues such as clubs and stadiums with more than 15,000 seats will be able to have up to 400 video bingo machines.
3. Jogo do bicho
- Companies must prove resources to guarantee the payment of premiums.
- One license will be granted for every 700,000 inhabitants of a state.
Taxation and economic impact
Players’ winnings will also be subject to taxation. Thus, for prizes above R$10,000, 20% of Income Tax will be withheld, collected directly by the betting companies.
Companies that operate casino games will pay inspection fees. Values vary between R$20,000 for bingo and horse racing bets and R$600,000 for casinos. In addition, there will be the Economic Intervention Contribution (Cide), with a rate of 17% on revenues.
However, the proposal has divided opinions. For defenders, regulation will open space for investments, tourism growth, job creation and increased tax revenue. But critics fear the social impact, such as increased cases of addiction and money laundering.
Therefore, if approved, the project will represent a turnaround in the casino gaming scenario in Brazil, ending a ban that has lasted almost eight decades. The debate promises to be intense.