Among the council members who did not support Mayor João Campos' (PSB) proposal are Councilwoman Kari Santos (PT) and Councilman Gilson Filho (PL).
The PT representative argues that betting companies, which benefit from the project, have been harmful to workers. "We do not want workers to be in debt. The PT way of governing is by defending workers, valuing their labor, and ensuring their dignity. That is why I submitted a proposal for a minimum 15% ISS tax exemption for companies that reduce working hours to a 4x3 schedule without lowering salaries. This is what we need," highlighted Kari.
Gilson Filho proposed that tax reductions should also be extended to all service sectors, such as education, civil construction, and the hotel industry.
"So that companies can increase their employees' salaries, hire more people, and invest in renovations— because, as was demonstrated during the Bolsonaro government, when you lower taxes, the government ends up collecting even more since that money continues to circulate," he said.
One of the justifications given by Mayor João Campos for lowering the tax rate for betting companies was that the capital city risked losing these businesses to other municipalities offering a better "cost-benefit" ratio.
With the approval of the proposal, Recife will reduce the tax rate of the Service Tax on Any Nature (ISSQN) for betting, lottery, and gambling companies from 5% to 2%. These companies are known for facilitating sports betting.
The measure amends Municipal Law No. 15.563, enacted in 1991, known as Recife's Tax Code. The new rate will apply to the distribution and sale of lottery tickets, bingo cards, betting slips, prizes, and capitalization bonds.
The approved law now awaits Mayor João Campos' sanction.
Source: Portal de Prefeitura
