Brazilian Congress Extends Online Betting Ban by 60 Days to March 2027

Brazil's National Congress has extended the ban on online gambling by 60 days. Senator Davi Alcolumbre, President of the National Congress, signed Act No. 118/2026 on 10 November, with the extension published in the federal official gazette the following day. The move prolongs President Lula da Silva's Provisional Measure prohibiting online betting until March 2027.

Congress initiated its 120-day review of the measure after the 25 September announcement. The additional time accommodates the parliamentary recess scheduled between 23 December 2026 and 1 January 2027. As reported by SBC News, lawmakers retain authority to reject or amend the ban.

Congressional Review and Industry Response

The Provisional Measure first faces examination by a joint committee drawn from the Chamber of Deputies and Federal Senate. It then proceeds to floor debates in both houses. The betting industry now confronts a narrowed window to launch lobbying efforts aimed at restoring operations in some form.

STF Constitutional Review

The Supreme Federal Court (STF) continues its separate assessment of the ban's constitutionality. Justice Luiz Fux oversaw a hearing last week that heard submissions from the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gambling (IBRI), the Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL), commercial trade bodies, health professionals, and the government. The Ministry of Finance maintained its defence of the prohibition.

The STF has blocked all related appeals and challenges from lower courts. Its eventual ruling could render legislative lobbying unnecessary.