The focus is to ensure that public resources are used appropriately, preserving the purpose of assistance programs and ensuring support for families in vulnerable situations
Minister Jhonatan de Jesus, from Federal Audit Court (TCU)took an important decision by demanding that the government implement measures to prevent resources from social programs, such as are used in fixed odds bets. He asked that technical solutions be presented within 15 days, aiming to curb this practice. The determination was forwarded to several bodies, including the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Development and Social Assistance, the Ministry of Sports and Caixa Econômica Federal. The focus is to ensure that public resources are used appropriately, preserving the purpose of assistance programs and ensuring support for families in vulnerable situations.
The minister emphasized that TCU’s actions are preventive, with the aim of protecting the treasury and the integrity of public policies, avoiding negative impacts that could affect beneficiaries. This approach seeks to ensure that resources intended for social assistance are not diverted to incompatible activities. It is worth remembering that Minister Luiz Fux, of the Federal Supreme Court (STF), had already imposed restrictions on the use of Bolsa Família funds in online betting. However, the Attorney General’s Office (AGU) declared that there are no conditions to prevent this use.
An analysis by the Central Bank revealed that, in August 2024, around 5 million beneficiaries transferred R$3 billion to betting companies via Pix. Furthermore, Jhonatan de Jesus requested clarification on the lack of regulation in the betting sector, which should be implemented in January 2025. He warned that the absence of a regulatory framework could create a vacuum that undermines the protection of social interests, making it necessary more rigorous monitoring of activities in this market.
Published by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the help of AI
