A plan to legalize gambling in Brazil, including casinos, bingo, and Jogo do Bicho, has been adopted by the Senate Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ). The result was narrowly 14–12 in favor.
The proposal delineates standards for overseeing gaming activities, encompassing prize offerings, player rights, and gaming provider taxation. The bill’s rapporteur, Senator Irajá, contends that the law will guarantee safe, regulated gambling as well as boost the economy and tourism. Legalized gaming, in his opinion, may result in the creation of 700,000 new employment, R$44 billion in investment income, and a twofold increase in foreign visitors.
The Chamber of Deputies approved similar legislation in 2022, but the bill faced delays in the Federal Senate due to opposition from the evangelical bench and conservative lawmakers. Lobbying efforts in Parliament have intensified recently to secure more votes for the bill.
Casino Locations and Next Steps
The new legislation authorizes casinos in tourist centers or incorporated leisure complexes, including luxury hotels, bars, restaurants, and cultural event spaces. Each state and the Federal District will be allowed one casino, with São Paulo permitted up to three. Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Amazonas, and Pará will each be authorized up to two casinos.
Additionally, up to 10 casinos will be allowed on maritime vessels, with river vessels required to change locations every 30 days. The bill now moves to the Senate Plenary for review and, if approved, will be forwarded to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for his endorsement.
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