Brazil’s provisional measure banning fixed-odds betting could face legislative delays despite the government’s push for approval by December 20, with the measure yet to begin formal committee proceedings in Congress.
Provisional Measure (MP) 1.394/2026 remains “awaiting the establishment of the committee,” according to Congress’s website. Although members have been nominated, neither a president nor a rapporteur has been appointed, preventing consideration of 94 outstanding amendments.
Lawmakers initially submitted 99 amendments, five of which were withdrawn. Senator Dr. Hiran (PP-RR) has proposed restricting betting to actual sporting events, excluding “tigrinho” and other games of chance.
Representative Julio Arcoverde (PP-PI) has separately proposed limiting the prohibition to unauthorized operators while denying concession fee refunds or compensation. Senator Sergeant Reginauro (PSDB-CE) and Representative Captain Alden (PL-BA) submitted 17 amendments each.
Institutional Relations Minister José Guimarães (PT) said Tuesday (27) that the government intends to approve the betting measure, the Public Security Constitutional Amendment and the Zero Fare Constitutional Amendment for public transportation before December 20.
“If we vote on these three major agendas, we will already be satisfied,” he said, adding that the administration remained committed to the betting prohibition. “We will not give up on this.”
The measure enters an expedited legislative procedure on November 9, when it begins blocking the agenda of the chamber considering it. November 23 marks the end of its initial 60-day period, followed by an automatic extension. With the legislative clock suspended during the December 23-February 1 recess, BNLData calculates that the measure will expire on March 4, 2027, unless approved.
The proposal also faces judicial scrutiny. Supreme Federal Court Justice Luiz Fux, who upheld its validity, has scheduled a November 3 hearing involving government representatives, gambling companies and football clubs.
Meanwhile, the proposed ban would eliminate federal revenue from betting operators and allocations designated under Law 14.790/2023 for sports, tourism and the National Public Security Fund.
The revenue implications come as Congress resumes consideration of the 2027 budget, submitted August 31. Mandatory spending already accounts for 91.7% of federal expenditures, leaving 8.3% for investments and public services. The budget also requires adjustments to accommodate campaign commitments.