Brazilian lawmakers divided over gambling legalization

"Controlling illegal gambling operations, generating more employment sources and raising state funds for social causes are among the many benefits that gambling legalization has to offer to the future. This situation reminds me the debate about divorce law in Brazil. At that time, discussions generated many concerns and criticisms, but experience showed how regulating something that was necessary- and almost essential for society- offered many positive aspects and ended up being a solution to problems that existed and we didn’t recognize. I believe that gaming legalization should follow the same path: we must find solutions to a problem that already exists and give options to society,” pointed out Magda Mofatto (PR) during her intervention.

"We must find a balance between a legal framework that can offer us profitable tax rates, but also allow us to encourage investor by granting them lucrative business environments. This would give us the opportunity to achieve solutions that benefit all stakeholders," said one of the supporters of gaming legalization, deputy Herculano Passos (PSD).

On the other hand, deputy and evangelist pastor Roberto de Lucena (PV) expressed his hesitations about the opening of Brazil’s gaming market. "Everything that has been discussed until know is related to the benefits of this decision in economic terms. We can’t simply justify this measure based on financial reasons. We must take into consideration other issues -that are being left aside- such as the social costs of gambling that could seriously harm society.

Personally, I would like to propose a national referendum in the context of Brazil’s general elections to be held next year. An open consultation about the possible gambling legalization in the country would give us the chance to have a serious discussion over the goods and harms generated by this measure. This would allow people to decide directly, instead of letting the House make the final call,” he added.

“Corruption is a serious problem in our country. Although there are many systems designed to regulate and monitor the gambling industry, we must ask ourselves if Brazil is prepared to deal with this sensitive subject. We should not think only in terms of numbers, but also about the social costs. I think Brazil has much more to lose than to win amid the possible legalization of casinos and bingos.”

While addressing Lucena’s remarks, Passos claimed that gambling is already a problem in today's society that puts in risk millions of people by financing illegal activities.

"People are gambling and compulsive players are unprotected. This is precisely what we want to avoid. We want to create a safety environment for those who already play in Brazil," Passos emphasized.

"I believe this bill that we are discussing is outdated. This proposal was dismissed because it didn’t have enough support. I think that society must play a more significant role in this decision and I also believe that we must require a broad open discussion, which goes beyond the need for employment or financing resources. Once institutions and people are convinced about the right path for legalization then we can make a solid decision,” said de Lucena.

Mofatto added: "If I wasn’t convinced that the benefits were greater than the damages, I believe you could persuade me (by addressing Lucena). However, I was part of the Commission that discussed this issue and I think we have overcome the analysis phase. We gave space to all sectors involved in the debate and today we are in the final stages of the process. The final decision should be made by the legislators who represent Brazil’s people," she concluded.