Acre, Brazil — Governor Gladson Camelí has vetoed a legislative amendment aimed at prohibiting sports betting and casino-style games within the State Lottery of Acre. This decision was documented in a special edition of the State Official Gazette on January 21, 2026. The amendment, proposed by state deputy Eduardo Ribeiro of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), sought to ban fixed-odds betting, online games, and casino-like activities within the state’s lottery operations. Governor Camelí’s veto is significant within the context of Brazil’s national regulatory framework for betting and lottery services, which currently allows for such activities under federal jurisdiction.
The vetoed amendment outlined a comprehensive ban on the “exploitation, authorization, accreditation, intermediation, promotion, advertising, or any form of operation” related to fixed-odds betting, electronic games, and casino activities within the state lottery. Governor Camelí, in his partially reasoned veto, indicated that consultations with the State Secretariat of Finance clarified that the amendment would effectively outlaw fixed-odds betting as a lottery modality, encompassing both physical and virtual wagers.
The governor’s decision highlighted that fixed-odds betting is governed by national regulation. Brazil’s federal government permits such activities across the country, adhering to federal ordinances such as Ordinance SPA/MF No. 827 from May 21, 2024. This federal stance allows operators with federal licenses to conduct fixed-odds betting in Acre, using domains like “bet.br,” as specified by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting’s Normative Instruction SP/MF No. 11, issued on November 4, 2024.
Regarding casinos, Governor Camelí pointed out the absence of federal legislation authorizing or detailing the operation of casinos in Brazil. No national law has yet been approved to regulate this sector, with discussions ongoing in the Federal Senate. Therefore, states remain unable to unilaterally establish rules for casino operations without a comprehensive national legislative framework.
The veto also drew attention to current federal guidelines designed to protect vulnerable individuals. These measures include restrictions on spending from social programs like Bolsa Família on betting activities, as stipulated in Ordinance SPA/MF No. 2.217 from September 30, 2025. Additionally, there are legal provisions concerning individuals diagnosed as pathological gamblers, dictated by Article 26 of Federal Law No. 14.790 of 2023.
The legal landscape is further complicated by an ongoing Action of Unconstitutionality (ADI No. 7721) before Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court. This case challenges the regulatory framework for fixed-odds betting, highlighting the continued legal uncertainties surrounding the sector. Governor Camelí’s veto thus reinforces the precedence of federal regulation over state-level initiatives in the development of gambling laws, while also emphasizing the importance of consumer protection measures.
This decision underscores the delicate balance between state legislative efforts and Brazil’s evolving national regulatory environment regarding gambling. As the debate continues, both state governments and industry stakeholders will need to navigate the complex regulatory terrain shaped by both federal and state influences.
Looking forward, the rejection of the amendment sets the stage for further discussions on the future of sports betting and casino-style gaming in Acre. The decision reflects ongoing legislative and judicial processes at the national level, which may ultimately determine the regulatory direction for these activities in Brazil. The response from market stakeholders and potential adjustments to regulatory policies will be crucial in shaping the state’s approach to gambling operations.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.