Brazil’s decades-long effort to legalise land-based gambling has suffered another setback after the Senate rejected a request to fast-track the legislation. Despite growing public support and repeated projections of substantial tax revenues, lawmakers have once again opted for caution, leaving the future of physical casinos, bingo halls and other land-based gaming activities uncertain.

The rejection underscores the persistent political divisions surrounding gambling reform in Brazil, even as the country has already moved ahead with regulating online betting and iGaming earlier this year.

Senate Blocks Fast-Track Procedure

On Wednesday, Brazil’s Senate plenary voted 36–28 against a request to grant urgent status to PL 2,234/2022, the bill that would legalise land-based casinos, bingo, jogo do bicho and betting on horse racing. The decision means the proposal will now proceed through the standard legislative process, with no clear timeline for when a full vote may take place.

Although the bill was approved by the Justice and Citizenship Committee last year, it has repeatedly stalled in the Senate, with votes postponed several times amid ongoing political debate and opposition.

Economic Arguments Clash with Social Concerns

Supporters of the bill continue to stress its potential economic impact. Senator Irajá Abreu, rapporteur of the legislation, has previously stated that legalising land-based gambling could generate up to BRL20 billion in tax revenue. Proponents argue that regulated casinos would stimulate tourism, create jobs and deliver much-needed tax income to states and municipalities.

However, opponents remain vocal. Senator Eduardo Girão warned that legalisation could disproportionately affect lower-income communities, particularly due to the inclusion of bingo. He argued that the bill would expand gambling participation rather than merely regulating existing demand.

Political Momentum Remains Fragile

Other lawmakers, such as Senator Weverton, believe the financial benefits justify moving forward. He argued that regulated, physical casinos would allow states to capture tax revenue currently lost to illegal or offshore gambling activity. Still, these arguments were not enough to secure urgency status for the bill.

The setback is notable given recent polling indicating that public sentiment may be shifting. A DataSenado survey previously found that 60% of Brazilian adults support the legalisation of land-based casinos, raising expectations that 2025 could finally mark a breakthrough year.

Uncertain Outlook for Land-Based Gambling

Efforts to legalise land-based gambling in Brazil date back to the early 1990s, with multiple legislative iterations culminating in the current proposal. Despite progress in online gambling regulation, land-based reform remains politically sensitive and vulnerable to delay.

The rejection of the urgent vote request adds further uncertainty over whether and when Brazil will approve regulated land-based casinos. For now, the long-awaited reform remains stalled, leaving investors and stakeholders waiting for clearer political direction.

Sources: iGaming Business