Senator uses survey to push for land-based expansion in Brazil
During a recent Plenary session Senator Irajá stated that Brazilian society is now mature enough to accept the establishment of casinos and bingo halls under responsible regulations. He advocated for the advancement of legislation, specifically PL 2,234/2022, emphasizing the importance of creating a legal framework that addresses contemporary challenges in the gaming industry.
The senator cited research from DataSenado, conducted at his request, which indicates that 6 out of 10 Brazilians support the legalization of casinos. In his view, society sees the project— which also authorizes the jogo do bicho and betting on horse races, among other gambling activities— as an opportunity for development rather than a threat.
DataSenado, a research institute associated with the Brazilian Senate, released the results of a comprehensive public opinion survey on the regulation of responsible gambling and integrated resorts in Brazil last month. The national survey was taken in order to help with the deliberation of Bill No. 2234 of 2022 which was approved by the Chamber of Deputies in March 2022.
“The current prohibition does not work, as 70% of Brazilians believe it does not reduce the illegal gambling market in the country. Only 25% still think the law is capable of curbing illegal gambling, which is dominated by organized crime,” Senator Irajá said.
Senator Irajá believes Brazil needs a “modern and responsible” regulatory framework based on successful international experiences that can boost tourism, attract investments, and generate jobs. However, he emphasized that the legislation must tackle money laundering and the financing of organized crime while avoiding player indebtedness.
“Regulating is (…) ensuring oversight and protection for our society, and Brazilians support exactly that,” he said.
Additionally, citing DataSenado numbers, he noted that most of the population would not frequent bingo halls and casinos even if they were legalized. The senator dismissed the “fear arguments” surrounding gaming houses and expressed hope that the Senate would analyze the matter with seriousness and on a technical basis.
According to the Senate News Agency in remarks from other senators, Senator Magno Malta expressed doubts about the representativeness of DataSenado’s numbers, suggesting that the legalization of casinos would be defeated in the Plenary. Senator Eduardo Girão meanwhile called it “irresponsibility” to exacerbate the problems facing the Brazilian people with gambling.
