Felipe Carreras, Federal Deputy for the State of Pernambuco in Brazil, and so a member of the country’s Chamber of Deputies, has introduced a draft revision to Brazil’s existing gambling laws that proposes the authorisation of the operation of casinos, bingo halls, sports betting, online gambling and skill games, in addition to legalising the hugely popular lottery-style ‘Jogo do Bicho’, prohibited since 1946. The project also proposes the creation of a federal regulatory body, the ‘Sinaj’ or National Betting and Gaming System. The purpose of the draft proposal is to provide an initial basis for discussion among parliamentarians, working towards a final report, to be presented to the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Arthur Lira.
In addition to the Sinaj, the creation of a National Registry of Players and Gamblers, the ‘Renajogo’, is also proposed. And, according to the proposal, no player will be able to participate in games or bets without first registering. The database will be used to control and record access to bets and will allow player behaviour to be followed, ensuring their protection and the prevention of compulsive gambling. According to Federal Deputy Joao Carlos Bacelar, who leads the working group on the project, the draft presented by Mr. Carreras meets the expectations of the working group and represents the national interest. “The group has until December 9th to complete its work and we hope that by then the new text is complete and rounded. We are on the right path, and we have good expectations,” said Mr. Bacelar.
