Brazil moves closer to legalizing gambling, Senate vote expected this semester

According to Mercado & Eventos, the Brazilian Senate may vote on the legalization of gambling, including casinos, bingos, and the "jogo do bicho," by the end of this semester. Senator Irajá (PSD-TO), rapporteur of the bill (PL 2234/2022), stated that Senate President Davi Alcolumbre plans to schedule the proposal for a plenary vote in the coming weeks.

The bill was narrowly approved by the Senate’s Constitution and Justice Committee in June 2024 and now awaits a full Senate vote. If passed, it would legalize various forms of gambling and establish regulatory frameworks.

The proposal includes a 17% tax on gross revenue (CIDE-Jogos) and a 20% corporate income tax on net player prizes. Senator Irajá claims the initiative has majority support and is being coordinated with key government ministries.

A recent DataSenado poll showed that 60% of Brazilians favor legalization, while 75% believe the current ban is ineffective. Despite this, the proposal faces resistance from senators concerned about addiction and money laundering.

The bill has already passed the Chamber of Deputies and could bring significant tax revenue and job opportunities if enacted.