The Justice and Citizenship Commission approved PL 2,234/2022, 14-12, June 19 paving the way for Brazil casino regulation. It was then expected to be voted on by the senate plenary after its return from recess Aug. 1, per iGB.
However, reports from CNN indicate the senate president, Rodrigo Pacheco, places more importance on matters relating tax and state debt than he does the gambling bill.
Vote May Take Place after Municipal Elections
As a result, the bill on gambling could now be pushed back until October. This would follow the first round of municipal elections, scheduled for Oct. 6.
PL 2,234/2022 was set to be discussed in the senate Thursday in a thematic debate, during which opponents and proponents made their cases. No vote was taken. A decision will be made then on whether the vote is pushed back. If it is not delayed, there could be a vote next week. President Lula da Silva has already indicated that he will sign the bill if it passes the senate.
Among the points of contention that need to ironed out are the potential strengthening of measures to avoid interference from organized crime and prevent money laundering.
The decision to postpone the vote is also impacted by pressure from evangelicals within the senate, who fear the legalization of gambling could lead to the rise of addiction levels in Brazil.
