Brazil's Congress extends nationwide betting ban for 60 days
Regulation1 min read
Brazil's National Congress reportedly extended the provisional measure imposing a nationwide betting ban for 60 days, with the new period starting on 24 November. Congress President Davi Alcolumbre signed Act No. 118; lawmakers have until 4 March 2027 to make the restrictions permanent, which requires approval by both chambers. A joint committee to examine the measure has not yet been established.
Brazil’s National Congress has prolonged the nationwide betting ban by 60 days, leaving lawmakers until 4 March 2027 to decide whether it should become permanent. Congress President Davi Alcolumbre signed Act No. 118 to extend the provisional measure that introduced the ban.
The new period begins on 24 November, with the countdown suspended during the congressional recess from 23 December to 1 February. Article 62 of Brazil’s Constitution made the extension automatic. Provisional measures take effect immediately, but permanent legislation requires approval by the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate. The measure will expire if Congress does not approve it before the extended deadline.
A total of 99 amendments have been proposed to the legislation, with five withdrawn. Some would reinstate regulated sports betting in Brazil without lifting the prohibition on online casino games. Other proposals would tighten gambling advertising rules, prevent betting operators from sponsoring sports teams, stadiums and tournaments, and strengthen enforcement against unlicensed gambling sites.
Brazil’s Congress has prioritised debate on the ban, but has not yet formed the joint committee tasked with examining the legislation. Lawmakers have been nominated for seats on the committee, but it has no appointed chair. Once established, the committee will review the measure and issue a report before Congress holds a final vote.