Could You Be Gambling—Legally—In Brazil by the New Year? Breaking Down the New In-Person Casino Bill

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As a devoted follower, I’m thrilled about the prospect that soon, within a couple of months or so, a law suggested by none other than Celso Sabino, our Tourism Minister in Brazil, could potentially legalize all kinds of face-to-face gambling!

Bill 2234/22, if passed, could extend permission for casinos, bingo halls, horse racing venues, and jogo de bicho lotteries across the nation. Sabino envisions that this bill might generate around $3.5 billion in yearly income and potentially create employment opportunities for up to a million people.

Should the bill be approved, it might generate numerous job opportunities and boost government income. However, there’s apprehension about potential rise in problematic behavior or illegal activities if the regulations are not robust enough.

Inside the Bill: What’s Actually Changing

The proposed legislation aims to make it lawful for a select few brick-and-mortar casinos, bingo halls, games similar to jogo de bicho lotteries, and horse racing bets to operate.

As a fervent supporter, I’d say that casinos wouldn’t pop up randomly in any old place. Instead, they’d only be permitted within integrated resorts, with each state having the luxury of just one such resort. However, exceptions would be made for larger territories, which could then accommodate up to three of these marvelous resorts.

A 17% tax on gross gaming revenue would be established, as would a 20% levy on gambling winnings.

In contrast to online casinos, these platforms would have limitations on payment providers; they wouldn’t accept cash or Pix transactions. Instead, gambling activities would require the usage of credit cards as a mandatory method of funding.

This situation raises worries about potentially harmful gambling habits. Generally, there’s strong public support for legalized gambling, and it’s predicted that the bill will go through without much resistance.

What’s Driving the Push to Legalize Gambling in Brazil?

Following the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its tourism sector, Brazil has made a remarkable recovery over the past few years. This resurgence is evident in the unprecedented influx of foreign tourists it welcomed in the year 2024, setting a new record.

Sabino advocates for incorporating officially permitted in-person gambling establishments, believing this move could boost growth and further expand the nation’s reach, while simultaneously encouraging tourism. As a tourism development-focused entity, we endorse this proposal, with other ministries echoing our sentiments. Our aim is to attract a greater number of visitors and stimulate domestic travel.

This bill signifies the latest step in a significant evolution of the nation’s perspective on gambling, traditionally viewing it as something largely prohibited due to its reliance on luck.

Since the beginning of January, online betting has been made legal within the country, and it’s already proven to be incredibly successful, raking in billions of dollars in revenue over a brief period.

Why This Matters (To Brazilians and Tourists Alike)

Based on Sabino’s predictions, this legislation could generate billions in annual revenue, potentially create over a million jobs annually, and facilitate the building of approximately 10,000 health clinics and 200,000 affordable homes for low-income families each year.

The proposal also intends to limit unlawful underground networks, but some skeptics caution that lacking stringent supervision might simply permit these entities to function openly instead.

Developing several resort-casinos could significantly attract tourists, as it offers them enticing reasons to travel. Moreover, if the earnings from these ventures are channeled towards enhancing local infrastructures, it would further boost tourist appeal.

Incorporating traditional games such as slots, horse racing, and bingo, which are well-known in the local culture, into tourist destinations might attract tourists who enjoy gambling, yet seek an authentic Brazilian travel experience.

Looking Ahead: Can Brazil Pull This Off?

The legislation might be put to a vote as soon as July, and should it be approved, it could mark a significant turning point for both Brazil’s economy and tourism industry.

The earnings generated from gaming or betting could potentially be utilized for enhancing infrastructure, building affordable homes, and many other projects, thereby strengthening the nation’s position as a leading tourism hub in South America.

Although success isn’t guaranteed, it’s crucial to recognize that significant effort will be required post-enactment. To prevent this legislation from becoming a wasteful project for the corrupt and privileged, thorough monitoring and regulation are essential to ensure fair distribution of its benefits.

Critics might scrutinize rising addiction cases or growing instances of corruption. On the other hand, supporters will focus on employment growth figures and statistics regarding foreign investments.

It seems like Brazil is taking a significant risk or bet, as suggested by Minister Sabino’s speech and the statements of his allies.

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2025-08-29 22:11