Folha defends expanding the legal possibilities for gambling in Brazil, in respect of individual freedoms and also as a pragmatic way of dealing with the impositions of reality.
Such an understanding, signed just over two years ago, does not mean an endorsement of any and all proposals in this regard — such as the bill recently approved by the Chamber of Deputies.
One cannot underestimate the damage to which gaming's practitioners are subject, which go far beyond the financial loss due to misinformation. There are plenty of studies pointing out the high risk of compulsive behaviors, which are often associated with other disorders, such as alcoholism and depression.
Furthermore, it is well known that the exploitation of casinos and other gambling establishments provides opportunities for criminals to launder money, as well as the profitable association with drug and even human trafficking.
However, the pure and simple prohibition of the practice, like the one that has been in force in the country since the 1940s, does not prove to be a good solution. This is undesirable and unproductive interference by the State on the free will of citizens — and many of them end up resorting to clandestine options.
Not to mention that the internet today offers the chance to bet through sites around the world.
All things considered, the best alternative is to legalize the activity under strict regulation, which sets limits and obligations, such as offering all necessary clarification to participants, in addition to imposing substantial taxation.
The project approved by the Chamber — which dates from 1991 — advances in some of these issues, but is not without concern.
Despite the long process, the debate was precarious: the impetus came from the lobby of local governments and interested sectors, while the Jair Bolsonaro (PL) government remained aligned with the opposite position of the evangelical bench.
The most visible problematic aspect of the text is the foreseen taxation: only one Cide is created, with a rate of no more than 17%, levied on the exploitation of gaming, which appears to be excessive permissiveness.
The creation of a federal regulatory body is also authorized, which would be responsible for authorizing and supervising the gaming venues. Little is detailed, however, about the structure and guarantees of autonomy of this institution.
Once again, the Senate will be responsible for an in-depth scrutiny of the proposal, without the haste that marks the current administration of the Chamber.
Editorial
Folha de São Paulo
