The 6th Panel of the Federal Regional Court of the 1st Region (TRF1) took a significant decision by denying the appeal presented by the Attorney General’s Office (AGU). According to the court, the ordinances issued by the Ministry of Treasury, which required mandatory accreditation of sports betting companies with the Union, remain suspended. This decision ensures the continuity of the companies’ operations under the supervision of the Rio de Janeiro State Lottery (Loterj), which has been regulating the sector since April 2023.
Loterj’s autonomy confirmed by the Court
With this decision, companies accredited by Loterj are authorized to maintain their operations in accordance with the guidelines established by the notice issued by the state authority.
There is no longer a need to obtain approval from federal bodies, thus guaranteeing greater autonomy for activities in the state of Rio de Janeiro. The decision reinforces Loterj’s competence in regulating the sports betting sector in the state.
Context and implications
The Ministry of Treasury had previously introduced the ordinances as part of an effort to create a national regulatory policy for sports betting. This policy included strict accreditation and oversight requirements to be implemented by the federal government. However, Loterj contested this measure, maintaining that it has the necessary authority to regulate lottery activities within the state.
By ensuring that operations under the Loterj banner can continue without additional interference, the court strengthens the state lottery‘s position as an effective regulatory entity. This outcome underscores the importance of state jurisdiction in managing lotteries and betting, especially in a legal landscape that continues to evolve.
Loterj and accredited companies
The Rio de Janeiro State Lottery, known as Loterj, stands out as the first state lottery in Brazil to accredit sports betting and online games. This innovation positions the state lottery as a pioneer in the Brazilian market, expanding entertainment options for players and strengthening the local economy.
With this advance, several betting houses received their license to operate under the supervision of Loterj, ensuring a safe and regulated gaming environment. Among the licensed platforms, names such as 10.Game, Betagora, Betpix365, Brabet, Caesars Sports, and Pixbet, among others, stand out.
