The Senate of Brazil is scheduled to hold a pivotal hearing tomorrow on Bill 2,234/2022, a comprehensive legislative proposal aimed at regulating the nation’s land-based casinos, bingo, and horseracing industries.
The hearing marks the next crucial step for the bill, which has already been approved by the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate’s Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ).
This move represents another potentially significant expansion of Brazil’s regulated gaming market, following the landmark regulation of iGaming and sports wagering in January of this year.
The bill proposes the authorization of integrated casinos within large hotels, tourist hubs, or leisure resorts, outlining a structured distribution model across the country.
Most states would be permitted one casino, with exceptions for São Paulo (three) and Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Amazonas, and Pará (two each). The legislation also includes provisions for riverboat casinos on vessels with at least 50 rooms.
For the bingo sector, the bill specifies regulations for both online and physical halls. It proposes one hall per municipality, or one for every 150,000 inhabitants in more populous regions.
Prospective operators would need to demonstrate a minimum paid-up share capital of BRL 10 million (approximately $1.83 million) to qualify for a 25-year license, which would be eligible for renewal.
Furthermore, the proposal seeks to regulate slot machines, requiring them to be registered with the government and subject to regular audits. It also sets parameters for horse racing operations and other gaming forms.
This legislative effort coincides with other regulatory developments, including a separate bill approved by the Senate in May to impose new restrictions on gambling advertising.
