Brazil seems on the verge of legitimizing the bingo halls in the country.

After being approved by federal representatives, the project will go to the Senate, to pass through another vote.

The leaders of allied parties have already expressed their intention to vote for the project. It is not a priority for the government, but we do not hamper the vote, “said Representative Cândido Vaccarezza (PT-SP), Head of Government in the House. He also acknowledged that the issue is controversial, but said that the current situation of bingo halls is worse.

“There are bingo halls operating illegally in a different location, without legislation. It is a good step for the legalization and control, and prevention of organized crime that dominates the industry,” he said. The prohibition of bingo has popular support since 2004, when President Lula vetoed the game for the first time. At the time, as confirmed by studies, the majority of Brazilian citizens were in favor of the restriction.

The author of the project that legalizes the bingo, the representative Arnaldo Faria de Sá (PTB-SP), said that the amendments included in the proposal the issue more acceptable. “Part of the money raised is allocated for health services, an area in need of resources. The online control also serves to ensure that bingo halls are used by organized crime,” he added.

Against the legalization, the representative Mendes Thame, rejects the argument. “The expenditure necessary to control the game does not compensate for the value of the crop. And we know that will stimulate the vice, crime and corruption,” he said. Furthermore, he commented that he sees no possibility to obstruct the project to the Chamber. “Maybe it will be possible in the Senate,” said Thame.