Senator Irajá (PSD-TO), rapporteur of the bill that authorizes the operation of casinos and bingo halls in Brazil (PL 2,234/2022), stated that Brazilian society is mature enough to accept the operation of gaming houses under responsible rules. He made the statement in the Plenary this Tuesday (29), and defended legislation on the subject that is “aligned with today’s challenges”.
The senator also cited a survey by DataSenado, which shows that 6 out of 10 Brazilians are in favor of legalizing casinos. The survey was conducted at the senator’s request.
In its assessment, society sees the project as an opportunity for development and not a threat. According to the proposal, it also authorizes the animal game and betting on horse races, among other types of games.
According to Irajá, the ban does not work. “The current ban does not work, because 70% of Brazilians believe that it does not reduce the supply of illegal gambling in the country. Only 25% still believe that the law, today, is able to contain the criminal practice of clandestine gambling, illegal gambling, dominated by organized crime,” he argued.
Casino liberalization could boost tourism in Brazil
In his view, Brazil needs a new “modern and responsible” framework based on successful international experiences. Furthermore, this movement could be capable of boosting tourism, attracting investment and generating jobs.
However, he stressed that the rule should tackle money laundering and the financing of organized crime, in addition to preventing players from getting into debt.
Still citing the DataSenado figures, he recalled that the majority of the population would not go to bingo halls and casinos, even if they were legalized. The parliamentarian dismissed the “fear arguments” about gambling houses and said he hopes the Senate will analyze the matter seriously and according to technical criteria.