The legislation would need to be voted on before the end of July to keep the momentum going
After decades of stalled efforts, Brazil may finally see movement on a long-debated proposal to legalize land-based gambling. Senator Irajá, the rapporteur for the bill, says the legislation is now ready for a full Senate vote, which could happen as early as July. The bill would authorize the operation of casinos, bingo halls, the popular street game jogo do bicho, and betting on horse races.
The proposal has been in legislative limbo for over 30 years but gained new momentum after receiving approval from the Senate’s Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) in June. According to Irajá, public sentiment has shifted enough to justify bringing the measure to the floor. He pointed to a recent DataSenado survey showing that 60% of Brazilians support the legalization of gambling.
Supporters argue the bill offers a way to stimulate tourism and generate tax revenue while providing regulatory oversight to protect consumers. Backing from hotel and tourism industry groups has also helped build political momentum. However, not all lawmakers are on board.
Senators like Eduardo Girão and Izalci Lucas remain vocal opponents, citing social concerns tied to gambling addiction and financial harm. Lucas, once a supporter of regulated gaming, reversed his stance following the recent findings from the CPI of ‘Bets’, a Senate committee that investigated issues tied to online betting. He now argues that the potential downsides outweigh the economic benefits, warning of rising debt and family breakdowns linked to compulsive gambling.
In response, Irajá noted that the bill includes safeguards such as banning credit card use for gambling and establishing a national registry to help monitor problem gamblers. He emphasized the importance of voting before the congressional recess, hoping to push the measure forward before political attention shifts again.
The bill still faces potential amendments before a final vote, but backers say the groundwork has finally been laid for Brazil to formally embrace a regulated land-based gambling industry.
