Governor Eduardo Leite of Rio Grande do Sul has introduced a comprehensive bill to the State Legislative Assembly aimed at regulating the state’s lottery operations.
The legislation covers traditional draws, instant “scratch-off” games, and prognostic-based lotteries, though it notably excludes fixed-odds sports betting (“bets”), which remains under federal purview.
The Private Concession Model
The bill proposes a hybrid model where the lottery will be operated by private concessionaires through both physical and digital channels. While the private operator will determine the commercial layout and sales locations, the state will retain a central role in auditing, revenue distribution, and ensuring strict compliance with a mandated Responsible Gaming Plan.
Governor Eduardo Leite outlined the modern vision for the sector:
“We are proposing a modern regulation, with clear rules and a focus on protecting citizens. Our goal is to ensure legal certainty for the sector, with the State organizing and supervising this activity responsibly… We are also attentive to responsible gaming, with mechanisms to prevent harm.”
Economic and Social Benefits
The bill includes total bans on gaming for minors and the promotion of educational programs on the risks of addiction. Vice Governor Gabriel Souza of Rio Grande do Sul added that this is not about “creating something new” but about establishing transparency for an existing market to ensure it generates returns for society.
The public consultation process concluded earlier this year, and the final tender announcement is expected this April. An auction will follow, with the formal contract signing scheduled for 2027. Chief of Staff Artur Lemos emphasized that the proposal will secure the market against illegal activities while ensuring that lottery revenues return as “concrete benefits” to the citizens of Rio Grande do Sul.
