As of July 21, 2025, the Brazilian Senate has officially entered its mid-year recess without voting on the highly anticipated Bill PL 2.234/2022, which aims to legalize land-based casinos, bingo halls, jogo do bicho, and horse racing betting.
The vote, originally expected to take place in early July, was postponed after a July 8 session failed to reach quorum—only 56 out of 81 senators were present. Senate President Davi Alcolumbre removed the bill from the agenda, and no new date for discussion has been set.
The delay marks a significant setback for proponents of the bill, who argue that legalized casinos could generate over BRL 20 billion annually in tax revenue and create upwards of 1 million jobs. The Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Tourism have expressed strong support for the measure, citing its potential to stimulate regional economies and attract foreign investment through integrated resort developments.
However, strong opposition remains from conservative and evangelical lawmakers, including Senator Eduardo Girão, who denounce gambling as a threat to families and public health. Critics also question the country’s readiness to enforce regulatory safeguards against money laundering and gambling addiction.
Despite widespread public support—recent polls show that over 60% of Brazilians favor legalization—the bill remains in limbo. The Senate is not expected to revisit the proposal until after the recess, pushing any potential vote into the second half of the year, with no firm date confirmed.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s online betting sector, legalized in 2024, continues to thrive. The federal government collected nearly BRL 3 billion in taxes from online sportsbooks in the first five months of 2025, tightening its grip on unlicensed operators and advertising restrictions.
