The debate over Brazil’s gambling ban could continue into the new year. Congress has now extended the deadline for a vote until March 2027.
In September, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced a complete ban on online casinos and sports betting. Only poker rooms were spared. Despite the existing regulatory framework, operators were given only a short period to pay out customers and shut down their operations.
The ban was introduced through an executive measure but still needs to be approved by Congress to become law. This is where operators still have some hope, as lawmakers can submit amendments.
Some lawmakers are calling for more moderate changes. These include Tabata Amaral, who is demanding public healthcare services for people with gambling problems. Capitão Alden has submitted a total of 17 amendments, 15 of which aim to significantly weaken the ban.
Among other proposals, licensed bookmakers and online casinos would be allowed to retain their licences, while advertising would be permitted on a limited scale. The deadline for the vote was originally set to expire this month but has now been extended by 60 days. Taking into account the parliamentary recess from late December to early February, the vote must now take place by early March.