The bill had been rejected in a previous session because it was considered a supplementary law and, because it concerns a public service concession, did not receive the necessary votes (seven). Mayor Roberto de Araújo subsequently amended the text to an ordinary law, which enabled approval by a simple majority.
The bill stipulates that the funds raised will be allocated to the areas of health, education, public safety, social assistance, culture, and sports. The operation will be taxed with the ISS (Service Tax) at a rate of 5% on gross revenue.
An economic feasibility study indicates that Avaré, with a population of just under 100,000, has the potential to attract nearly 30,000 regular bettors. With an average monthly ticket price of R$58 (US$10), the estimated annual gross revenue is R$19.3 million (US$ 3.5m), with a net transfer of approximately R$2 million (US$ 360,000) to the city's coffers.
The project now awaits the mayor's approval for subsequent concession to the private sector.
Source: GMB
