Brazil: Senate postpones crucial vote

Shirley Pulis Xerxen December 6, 2023

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Brazil: Senate postpones crucial vote

The eagerly anticipated Senate vote on Brazil’s legislation to regulate sports betting and online casino games has encountered a setback, with a delay of at least one week. Last week, the pause came as a group of senators opposing the bill successfully invoked Senate rules, affording them additional time to scrutinize the proposed measure. Today, the vote was yet again postponed until next week. The president of the Senate, Rodrigo Pacheco (in article picture, right), is to reschedule for Tuesday, December 12. The bill’s rapporteur is Senator Angelo Coronel (in article picture, left).

Attendance affects senate quorum, impacts strategic voting

The delay is exacerbated by the absence of several senators this week, as they participate in the UN Climate Conference, COP28, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. With at least 16 out of 81 parliamentarians attending the global event, the government found it challenging to secure a strategic vote.

Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco emphasized the constitutional urgency of the bill. Originally processed under a constitutional urgency regime, the legislation required a vote within 45 days, or it risked blocking the agenda. Despite the withdrawal of urgency on November 12, delays in deliberating the text in thematic committees has prevented the project from reaching the Plenary earlier.

Pacheco defended the remote deliberation system but acknowledged the complexity of the matter, expressing agreement with the argument that such issues require in-person discussions with more senators present. He urged all senators to be present in the Plenary next week.

Heightened interest in the SiGMA Americas Summit

This legislative journey coincides with the upcoming SiGMA Americas Summit scheduled to take place in Sao Paolo in April 2024. The summit, renowned for its significance in the gaming industry, has witnessed a surge in demand for booths and sponsorships as industry leaders and stakeholders anticipate the unfolding regulatory landscape in Brazil.

The SiGMA Americas Summit stands poised to be a key platform for networking, collaboration, and discourse among industry players seeking to navigate the evolving regulatory terrain in Brazil. The current Brazilian regulatory landscape has only heightened the relevance of the summit, making it a crucial forum for understanding and adapting to the potential shifts in one of Latin America’s largest markets.

Join SiGMA Eurasia in Dubai between the 25 and 27 February 2024

The fourth edition of SiGMA Eurasia will once again be held at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, providing invaluable opportunities for attendees to network with industry professionals, gain exposure to the latest tech and innovations in the sector, meet key decision makers, and gain insight into new markets. Find all the details here.