Brazil Extends Nationwide Betting Ban for Another 60 Days

Brazil’s National Congress has extended the country’s nationwide betting ban for another 60 days, giving lawmakers until March 4, 2027, to decide whether to make the restrictions permanent.

Congress President Davi Alcolumbre signed Act No. 118, formally extending the provisional measure that introduced the ban. The decision was published in Brazil’s Official Gazette on November 11.

The ban was introduced to the shock of the global gambling industry back in September. This extension was automatic under Article 62 of Brazil’s Constitution. But Congress will need to pass further legislation if it wishes to make the ban permanent. 

The new period begins November 24, although the countdown is suspended during Congress’s recess from December 23 to February 1.

Brazilian law dictates that while a provisional measure must take effect immediately, it requires approval from both the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate if it is to become permanent legislation.

If Congress fails to approve the measure before the extended deadline, it will expire.

Debating the ban has been made a top priority by Brazil’s Congress, but the joint congressional committee that will be responsible for examining the legislation has not yet been established. Although lawmakers have been nominated to serve on the committee, no chair has been appointed. 

Once formally established, the committee will review the measure and produce a report before Congress takes a final vote.

Lawmakers Propose Changes to Betting Restrictions

There have already been 99 amendments proposed to the legislation, five of which have been withdrawn.

Some of the amendments would bring regulated sports betting back to Brazil, while at the same time maintaining the ban on online casino games.

Among the other proposals on the table are plans to tighten gambling advertising regulations, prevent betting operators from sponsoring sports teams, stadiums, or tournaments, and strengthen enforcement against unlicensed gambling websites.

For the time being, the provisional measure banning betting remains in force while lawmakers decide which of the amendments to approve or whether to allow the ban to expire next year.