Rio de Janeiro regulates VLT (light rail) machines for betting in commercial establishments.

The Rio de Janeiro State Lottery – Loterj, the state agency responsible for controlling lotteries, will inspect the betting machines known as VLTs (Video Lottery Terminals) that may be installed in commercial establishments in Rio de Janeiro, according to a decree regulating the operation of this type of lottery published by the Rio de Janeiro state government.

VLTs represent a new generation of betting machines that cannot be arbitrarily programmed by their operators, unlike previous models. According to a report by TV Brasil, through the program Repórter Brasil, the issue is controversial and divides opinions among jurists and mental health specialists. The equipment will be subject to constant verification and inspection processes by the state government through Loterj.

The regulation arises as a response to concerns about the manipulation of old slot machines, which lacked control and verification mechanisms. Previously, these machines could be freely configured by those who commercially exploited them, without any official supervision. Unlike the previous generation, the VLTs (light rail vehicles) will be inspected by the state government through Loterj (Rio de Janeiro State Lottery), at least according to the official decree.

The decree directly affects commercial establishments in Rio de Janeiro, which will now be able to install light rail vehicles (LRVs) on their premises, provided they comply with the regulations established by the state government.

The implementation of the light rail vehicles (LRVs) will take place in commercial establishments in the state of Rio de Janeiro, as determined by the government decree that regulates the operation of this equipment.

The regulation has generated divergent positions among experts. Lawyers defend the VLTs (Light Rail Vehicles) arguing that the equipment is auditable and offers security to bettors. For lawyer Paulo Horn, who was formerly the director of Loterj (Rio de Janeiro State Lottery) and is now part of the State Bar Association, the operation represents progress and brings security to the bettor. "They are absolutely auditable, they are all certified, they have to be certified, they have to be linked to a prize plan controlled by the entity, in this case Loterj here in Rio de Janeiro, which grants permission, in this case accreditation, for this use," the lawyer stated.

Psychiatrists are expressing concern, warning that the new development could trigger an epidemic of gambling addiction, similar to what happened previously with bingo halls. Psychiatrist Daniel Cunha, who treats patients at a public hospital of the State University, warns: “I find it extremely problematic and I view with some concern the increase in the number of cases in my practice, in the public services that are arriving.”

At the root of the problem are people who enjoy gambling. Many end up becoming addicted, which causes personal problems at home and at work. These are stories told by members of Gamblers Anonymous, who meet to share their experiences and stay free from gambling.

The decree does not specify details about the implementation schedule for the video lottery terminals or how many establishments will be able to receive the equipment.

Following the regulation, commercial establishments in Rio de Janeiro will be able to request the installation of light rail vehicles (LRVs), which will operate under the supervision of Loterj.