Brazil seeks to legalize bingo halls before the end of the month

Representatives of the official party believe that the proposal could be voted as soon as they conclude with the debate related to the prolific marine pole pre-sal in the following days. After being approved by the federal representatives, the project will have to go to the Senate, to go through another votation.

“The leaders of the allied parties have already manifestad the intention to vote the project. It is not a priority for the government, but we will not hamper the votation,” said Repesentative Cândido Vaccarezza (PT-SP), leader of the government in the Chamber. He also admitted that the issue is controversial, but declared that the current situation of the bingo halls is worse.

“There are bingo halls operating illegally in several premises, without legislation. It is better to legalize and control, preventing the organized crime from dominating the sector,” he explained. The bingo prohibition has popular support since 2004, when President Lula vetoed the game for the first time. An investigation held at that moment, confirmed by more recent studies, showed that most Brazilian citizens supported the restriction.”

The author of the project that legalizes bingos, representative Arnaldo Faria de Sá (PTB-SP), said that the amendments included in the proposal made the issue more acceptable. “Part of the money collected is allocated for health services, which is an area that needs resources. The online control will also avoid bingo halls to be used for organized crime,” he added.

Against legalization, representative Mendes Thame (PSDB-SP) rejects the argument. “The necessary expenses to control gaming does not offset the value collected. And we know that will stimulate vice, crime and corruption,” he stated. Besides, he commented that he does not see chances to hinder the project in the Chamber. “Maybe it will be possible in the Senate,” affirmed Thame.