The proposal, currently in the initial phase of processing, seeks to fill gaps in the current legislation and provide more legal certainty to operators, consumers, and the State itself, which currently faces challenges in adequately monitoring this new digital environment.
Why is the bill important?
The advancement of digital platforms has radically transformed the betting sector. Today, most bets are placed through applications, but legislation still does not clearly address this format. The Bill proposes updates that ensure transparency, consumer protection, the fight against the illegal market, and greater fiscal and regulatory control.
Moreover, the bill contributes to strengthening a responsible market aligned with international best practices, while preserving the State’s duty to ensure integrity, social responsibility, and fair revenue collection.
According to the Bill, internet application distribution platforms – such as Google Play and Apple Store – must observe the following guidelines for making fixed-odds betting applications available:
I – proof of valid and definitive authorization for the operator to offer fixed-odds betting, through the presentation of the number and date of publication of the authorization ordinance;
II – age rating for the electronic channel classified as “AO” (Adult Only), or equivalent, issued by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC);
III – implementation of mechanisms that prevent use of the applications by minors under 18;
IV – geographic restriction of access and use of the application in territories where the authorization is not valid;
V – compliance with Responsible Gambling guidelines, including clear display of information about risks, support channels, behavioral monitoring tools, self-exclusion, and time and spending limits; and
VI – provision of accessible complaint channels for users to report irregularities to the developer.
In his justification, Deputy Bacelar states that with the regulation of the betting market in Brazil, it has become essential to also regulate the channels through which these services are offered.
“Currently, although the legislation allows operation through internet applications, betting operators have not yet obtained permission from app stores to make their applications available.”
Bacelar emphasizes: “The global trend is clear: mobile phones have become the main access channel for online betting. In the United Kingdom, data from the Gambling Commission indicates that in 2020, about 50% of online sports betting was carried out via mobile devices — a percentage that has continued to grow and already exceeds 55% in 2024, especially among users under 35.”
He reinforces: “In this context, mobile applications not only represent a preferred access channel, but also a strategic tool to ensure the sector’s integrity. By requiring strict criteria for app distribution, the bill allows app stores to operate safely and confidently, based on objective requirements defined in legal norms.”
Source: GMB
