Key Moments:
- The Senate Committee on Science and Technology approved Bill 3,563/2024. The proposal bans all advertising and sponsorship linked to sports betting and online gambling.
- Additionally, the bill establishes strict penalties for violations. These include fines of up to R$10,000,000 and permanent license revocation.
- Moreover, betting on election outcomes is explicitly prohibited. Infractions may result in fines ranging from R$50,000 to R$500,000.
Comprehensive Ban on Betting Promotion Advances
The Senate Committee on Science and Technology (CCT) has approved Bill 3,563/2024. Overall, the proposal seeks to eliminate all forms of advertising, sponsorship, and promotion related to sports betting and online gambling in Brazil. Following this approval, the bill will now move to the Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) for further review.
Wide Scope of Advertising Restrictions
The bill, authored by Senator Randolfe Rodrigues (PT-AP), aims to significantly reshape how sports betting is communicated nationwide. In particular, it targets every major advertising channel. These include traditional media such as radio, television, print outlets, and billboards.
At the same time, digital platforms are also covered. This includes websites, social media, and other online formats. Furthermore, sponsorships of sports, civic, or cultural events fall under the proposed ban.
Importantly, the restrictions extend beyond direct advertising. Indirect practices are also prohibited. For example, product placements in films and television are addressed. Likewise, native ads, subliminal messaging, and digital promotions are included. In addition, betting applications may no longer be pre-installed on electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, or smart TVs.
| Advertising Channel | Covered by Ban? |
|---|---|
| Radio, Television, Press, Magazines | Yes |
| Billboards, Internet, Social Media | Yes |
| Sponsorships (Sports, Civic, Cultural) | Yes |
| Product Placements & Digital Advertising | Yes |
| Pre-installed Betting Apps on Devices | Yes |
Election-Related Betting Under Scrutiny
Another central feature of the bill focuses on election-related betting. Specifically, the text states: “Art. 33-A. The operation of physical or virtual fixed-odds betting whose object is the result of an election for positions in the Executive or Legislative Branch is prohibited.”
In addition, this restriction applies to referendums and plebiscites at all levels of government. As a result, any violations may lead to fines between R$50,000 and R$500,000. These penalties will vary depending on the seriousness of the offense and the offender’s financial capacity.
Strict Enforcement and Penalties
To ensure compliance, the bill introduces a tiered penalty system. Initially, offenders may receive a formal warning. However, more serious cases may trigger fines ranging from R$5,000 to R$10,000,000.
Moreover, authorities may impose temporary suspensions of operating authorization. In extreme cases, permanent license revocation is possible. Notably, the bill reinforces its scope with a clear provision: “Art. 16-A. The advertising of fixed-odds sports betting is prohibited throughout the national territory.”
Legislative Path Ahead
Following approval by the CCT, the bill now advances to the Constitution and Justice Committee for detailed analysis. During this phase, Senator Portinho (PL–RJ) is expected to propose additional amendments.
Meanwhile, the proposal will be discussed within a broader Senate working group on gambling legislation. Therefore, if enacted in its current or amended form, the bill could establish one of the most restrictive betting advertising regimes in Latin America. Consequently, it would significantly affect both operators and the broader Brazilian gaming market.
- Author
Daniel Williams
