Brazil’s betting ban receives 99 amendments filed by lawmakers. The most comprehensive changes will restore the licenses of all operators that were in force before the ban was imposed.
25 lawmakers, 18 deputies and seven senators submitted the amendments before the deadline of October 13 at 11:59 p.m.
Amendment 64 by Deputy Mauricio Neves (PP-SP) aims to reinstate each federal license suspended by that measure, with the original conditions and without a new fee and to extend the term of each until the operators cease operations. Amendments 69 and 77 by Dep. Capitão Alden (PL-BA) and Dep. Átila Lira (PP-PI), mentions to keep licences valid until their original expiry. Amendment 15 by Sen. Astronauta Marcos Pontes bans online casino and virtual games, restores sports betting licences.
Sports Betting Ban Causes Controversy
The largest group would distinguish between sports betting and online casino, allowing the first while preventing the second. This is the distinction that Flávio Bolsonaro, the opposition candidate in the second round of elections on October 25, says should be made in the law.
Senator Sargento Reginauro from PSDB-CE submitted 17 amendments, on the last day. The first would introduce permanent restrictions on gambling online. The majority of other amendments apply only in case the Congress allows at least some type of betting again, setting requirements for it.
Two amendments made separately by Deputies Valadares from PL-SE and Alden would file selections of restricted derivatives from the regulatory agency CVM.
Two deputies from Workers’ Party of Lula Ana Paula Lima from PT-SC and Dr. Francisco from PT-PI made amendments on gambling disorder issues in public healthcare, help with financial challenges for families, and financial claims. However, none of their amendments cancels the restrictions on gambling.
The joint committee was formed on September 30 but has yet to be put into effect, having no appointed head or reporting officer. According to Congress rules, the legislation will officially put a stop to all other Congressional activities starting on November 9, when it will start its 60-day term, which ends on November 23.