Brazilian Gambling Bill Passes Senate Committee

There is good news for gambling fan that wish to visit Brazil as the country’s Senate Committee has approved a bill that legalises internet gambling and casinos.

Gambling has been illegal in Brazil for 70 years but lawmakers are now busy trying to change that. The bill, known as PLS 186/2014, will allow land-based casinos, sports betting, bingo halls, horse race betting and internet gambling. The game of Jogo do Bicho, a popular type of lottery that is currently run by criminal enterprises, would also be legalised.

The bill will now advance to the general Senate floor in what is seen as a major step forwards. William Hill has said that legalising casinos in Brazil “would be one of the most significant events in gaming history.” It is thought that Brazil could pull in around $3 billion a year in casino tax revenue if the bill passes.