The country’s Senate continues to prolong a debate that began years ago
The Brazilian Senate has delayed voting on a bill aimed at legalizing casinos and other gambling activities, pushing the discussion to 2025. Known as the Casinos PL (PL 2,234/2022), the proposal seeks to regulate casinos, bingo halls, and horse race betting, but it was removed from the agenda following heated debate among senators.
Senator Irajá, the bill’s rapporteur, requested the postponement to address concerns raised during discussions. Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco confirmed that the proposal will now await input from the ministries of Health, Development and Social Assistance, and Family and Fight Against Hunger. Responses are expected within 30 days, though final decisions will likely be taken up by the next Senate leadership.
The delay followed Senator Flávio Arns’ request for data on the potential impact of legalized gambling on public health services, particularly concerning gambling addiction treatment. Some senators, including Eduardo Girão, raised concerns that the bill could lead to increased social harm, referencing issues stemming from previous approvals of betting activities.
Opposition voices, such as Senator Eliziane Gama, called for the project to be shelved, emphasizing the risks of money laundering and other crimes. Senator Esperidião Amin noted that the proposal, originally introduced in 1991, has lingered in legislative limbo for years and should be permanently retired.
Supporters of the bill argue that regulated gambling could curtail the influence of organized crime while generating significant tax revenue. Senator Irajá underscored the need for oversight, pointing out that unregulated gambling already thrives in Brazil. He advocates for responsible gaming policies that include enforcement measures and tax collection.
Despite passing narrowly in the Constitution and Justice Commission (CCJ) earlier this year, the Casinos PL faces strong opposition and remains a divisive topic. The decision to postpone effectively leaves its future uncertain.
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