Brazilian senate committee takes a more liberal approach to gambling

This week saw the start of what could be a major breakthrough for gambling in Brazil when the Special Commission of National Development – a committee in the national Senate – progressed a measure to allow multiple styles of gambling, including online betting on sports and casino games, by 8 votes to 2, with one abstention.

The version of Sen. Blairo Maggi’s Bill 186 that was approved includes an amendment that restricts authorisation to gambling companies that can prove tax compliance, in addition to other requirements.

Among its provisions is a proposal to licence up to 35 land casinos across the nation, a video lottery and online gambling regulations, significantly expanding the current system, where gambling is restricted to live poker competitions, horseracing and lottery activity.

Allowance has been made for Brazilian provinces that wish to opt out of the expansion or to choose which forms of gambling they wish to regulate.

The vote will be followed by further consideration by the Comisión Especial de Marco Regulatorio de Juegos. If it clears that hurdle it will go to the Senate floor for a full debate and vote before being referred to the Brazilian equivalent of the Commons for further attention.

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