60% of Brazilians support legalizing gambling, Senate survey reveals

A national survey conducted by DataSenado, at the request of Senator Irajá (PSD/TO), has found that 60% of Brazilians support the legalization of gambling, including casinos, bingo halls, and the popular jogo do bicho. The findings aim to inform discussions on Senate Bill 2234/2022, which seeks to regulate the industry after being approved by the Chamber of Deputies in March 2022.

Between February 21 and March 1, 2025, 5,039 Brazilians aged 16+ were interviewed via phone in a stratified random sample, representing over 170 million people. The survey examined public opinion on key aspects of the bill, including economic benefits, addiction prevention, and crime deterrence.

Key Findings:

1. Broad Support for Legalization

• 60% (102 million people) favor legalizing gambling, while 34% oppose it.

• 26% (44 million) expressed interest in participating if regulated—including bingo, casinos, or jogo do bicho.

2. Skepticism Over Current Ban

• 75% believe the current prohibition is ineffective at curbing illegal gambling.

  • 29% say it does nothing to reduce illegal operations.

  • Only 25% think it significantly limits availability.

3. Economic Impact

• 58% (99 million) expect higher tax revenue from legalization.

• 44% (76 million) predict more jobs, while 36% see no effect.

4. Strong Backing for Regulations

• 82% (140 million) demand strict anti-money laundering rules for casinos.

• 62% (106 million) support mandatory fairness checks on slot machines.

• 54% (92 million) approve a confidential national registry to bar gambling addicts.

• 77% (131 million) stress the need for debt prevention measures.

Methodology

The poll used computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI) with a 95% confidence level and an average margin of error of ±1.72%. Responses were weighted for demographics, including region, age, and education, based on 2024 census data.

Next Steps

The results arrive as the Senate debates Bill 2234/2022, which would permit and regulate gambling venues nationwide. Proponents argue it could boost tourism and tax income, while critics warn of addiction risks and crime. With majority public approval, the bill’s fate now rests in lawmakers' hands.