Senator Eduardo Girão called for a ban on soccer betting during a Senate plenary session in Brazil, arguing that the regulated online betting sector has increased addiction. He also criticised betting sponsorships in football and has sought a parliamentary inquiry into alleged misconduct by the Brazilian Football Federation.
A proposed ban could affect betting operators and sponsorship arrangements in Brazilian football.
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Reportedly, Brazil’s finance minister supported regulating betting and strengthening controls. The minister stopped short of backing a gambling ban as calls for prohibition increased.
Dario Durigan, Brazil's finance minister, came out in support of regulating betting and tightening oversight of the industry, though he avoided endorsing a ban on gambling. According to him, public accounts do not rely on betting revenue to stay balanced. The rules, he added, have long been consolidated and were never meant to generate income.
Reportedly, São Paulo governor Tarcísio de Freitas has called for Brazil to end betting. Other politicians have also urged a ban.
Brazil’s labour minister Luiz Marinho called for a ban on betting in Brazil at an event in São Paulo on 4 August, saying gambling addiction harms workers. He said legislation would be needed and that Congress has authority to decide; he also cited workplace psychosocial-risk rules and ongoing discussions before enforcement under NR-1.
New Jersey state senator John F. McKeon called for stronger gambling prevention, marketplace safeguards and access to treatment, according to a media report. He cited a 2023 Rutgers study that found 5.6% of New Jersey residents were high-risk problem gamblers and urged the state to assess treatment capacity and bring industry, regulators and public health experts together.
Sen. John F. McKeon of New Jersey wants addiction tied to betting handled as a matter of public health, with a focus on prevention, safeguards in the market and better treatment access.
New York state senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. said the state is better positioned to discuss legalising online casinos, citing progress in downstate casino licensing and a newly signed ban on sweepstakes casinos. He said discussions could take place as part of the upcoming budget process.