The bill (PL) that proposes legalizing gambling in Brazil is expected to return to the Senate’s agenda in the second half of the year. The proposal authorizes the operation of casinos, bingo halls, horse racing betting, jogo do bicho, and online gaming platforms.
The text repeals the 1946 ban on gambling in the country. It also amends the Misdemeanor Penal Code, which establishes penalties for such practices.
The project also proposes the creation of a supervision and oversight system. The goal is to ensure security and transparency in activities, as well as prevent crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing.
Expected impacts include increased tourism, job creation, and spurring regional economic development. The proposal also calls for greater control of the gambling market and the creation of public policies to address gambling-related disorders.
Regulation may also encourage investment in tourism infrastructure, such as hotels and event centers.
Senators disagree on proposal to legalize gambling and casinos
The project’s rapporteur, Senator Irajá (PSD-TO), stated that “by legalizing, we will, in fact, be giving light to an activity that operates in the shadow of the law, but with the control of the public power, with the supervision of the control bodies, where the Brazilian population will be able to collect taxes that will be transferred to the states and municipalities.
Millions of jobs will be created, and billions of reais will be invested in the construction of these large tourist complexes. And of course, all of this will boost the national tourism sector.”
Therefore, if approved, the project foresees that the Ministry of Finance will be responsible for defining the licensing, inspection and authorization rules for the operation of games.
Despite the favorable arguments presented by the proposal’s supporters, the issue still faces strong resistance in the National Congress. Some senators oppose the legalization of gambling, citing social risks such as family debt and an increase in compulsive gambling.
According to Senator Eduardo Girão (Novo-CE), “It’s a situation that’s driving people to the brink, and Brazilians can no longer bear the debt caused by gambling. If the sportsbooks, cover people up to 49 years of age, bingo and casinos cover the rest, from 49 to old age, the elderly.”
Therefore, the bill to legalize casinos and bingo halls in Brazil still faces resistance from the evangelical caucus in Congress. In July, Senate President Davi Alcolumbre put the matter on the agenda, but never actually voted on it.
During the plenary session, Alcolumbre explained the reasons for the decision: the reduced quorum, the division among senators, and requests from party leaders. Therefore, the project should return in the coming months.
