IBJR Opposes Betting Ban and Warns of Illegal Market Risks

The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming expressed opposition to the ban on fixed-odds betting during a public hearing at the Supreme Court. The organization argues that restricting regulated activity does not end the habit of betting. The practical effect would be the shift of the public toward clandestine operators that function outside consumer protection standards.

According to the group, illegal platforms lack age verification mechanisms and self-exclusion tools. The entity emphasized that the absence of a formal market facilitates the actions of organized crime and the spread of unauthorized links. The defense of regulation is based on the need for transparency and the participation of various sectors of society.

Federal government representatives maintained their support for the ban during the hearing. The central argument involves the protection of fundamental rights and the insufficiency of current control measures. Data on suspicious financial transactions were presented to justify state intervention in the sector.

In the Senate, lawmakers from different political spectrums are pushing for the creation of a special committee to analyze the provisional measure. The goal is to accelerate deliberation on the issue before the end of the current legislative session. The discussion reflects concerns about the impact of betting on household budgets and the mental health of players.