The Lula government is relying on a Supreme Federal Court ruling to invalidate the 2018 law that legalized online betting in Brazil under then-President Michel Temer. Government ministers, speaking anonymously, expect the court to examine the original law and say that striking it down would address the issue at its source and prevent further disputes over betting.
The government’s provisional measure banning online betting was discussed at a public hearing convened by Justice Luiz Fux, who is rapporteur for cases challenging the measure. On Tuesday the 3rd, Fux argued that online betting should be banned in Brazil.
The measure also faces a challenge in Congress. Opposition lawmakers are discussing ways to overturn it and potentially restore at least sports betting. The measure must be voted on by lawmakers to remain in force, and the government’s congressional allies have made its approval a priority.
The Supreme Court has not yet set a date for its ruling. If it declares the 2018 law unconstitutional, the government argues, the provisional measure would no longer be necessary, potentially avoiding another fight in Congress. The administration is also seeking public support against betting: according to Folha, President Lula used the “Exército do Lula” channel to urge supporters to pressure the court.
Sources: Folha Poder.