Brazil's Federal Senate is expected to vote this week on a proposal to legalize gambling in the country, according to Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco (PSD-MG). The vote is scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, but could be postponed to the following week if more time is needed for deliberation.
The information was reported by the newspaper
O Globo.
The bill aims to revoke the prohibition in place since 1946, established by presidential decree, and amend sections of the Criminal Offenses Act, which still imposes penalties on gambling-related activities. If approved, the Ministry of Finance will oversee the regulation and monitoring of these activities.
The proposal allows casinos to operate within leisure complexes, such as resorts, or on maritime and river vessels. Requirements include a minimum capital of R$ 100 million and licenses valid for an initial 30 years, renewable. Licenses will be distributed by state based on population and territorial criteria.
Bingos will be permitted to operate permanently in designated venues or football stadiums with 25-year renewable licenses. Cities can issue one bingo license per 150,000 inhabitants, with requirements like a minimum area of 1,500 m².
The traditional jogo do bicho, currently run clandestinely, will be regulated, with licenses limited to one per 700,000 inhabitants per state.
Economic Impacts and Controversies
Rodrigo Pacheco emphasized that the matter is "urgent and strategic" due to its economic significance. If approved, the bill will mark the end of nearly 80 years of prohibition, paving the way for a regulated gambling market in Brazil.
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