written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
17 Apr 2024
Journalist, Editorial Department
Brazil's Federal Senate official news agency, Agência Senado, has reported on the next step regarding the potential legalization of casinos in the country. Today, April 17, the Senate's Constitution and Justice Committee will review Bill PL 2.234/2022.
Originally introduced two years ago by former deputy Renato Vianna, the bill aims to legalize casinos and bingo, as well as lotteries and horse racing bets. Senator Irajá Silvestre Filho will serve as the rapporteur, advocating for the transition of the gambling industry into a regulated framework.
Under the proposed legislation, casinos would be permitted in tourist and entertainment centers, with each state allowed to host no more than one gambling establishment. An exception is made for São Paulo, where up to three casinos may be built. Additionally, the states of Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Pará, and Amazonas will be allowed to open two gaming venues each.
The bill also includes provisions for the legalization of floating casinos on board maritime and river vessels. To operate legally, each gambling establishment must have a minimum paid-in capital of 100 million reais (approximately $18 million). Licenses issued under this framework will be valid for 30 years.
Furthermore, the legislation proposes the legalization of bingo, both in physical venues and online. Each state will be able to license one legal entity for every 700,000 residents, with permits lasting 25 years and renewable for an additional term.
Additionally, the bill allows for the legalization of horse racing bets at racetracks. To gain accreditation from the Ministry of Agriculture, these venues may also offer bingo and video bingo games to their patrons.
Notably, the legalization of online casinos could generate $18 billion in revenue for New York.
