Brazil: Maranhão Files Petition at the Supreme Court to Defend State-Level Betting
Brazil.– November 6, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com The Government of Maranhão filed a petition before Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court (STF) defending the constitutionality of sports betting and highlighting the positive social and economic effects of regulation.
Overview
On Wednesday, November 5, the Maranhão State Government requested to join one of the lawsuits challenging the “Bets Law” as amicus curiae.
According to the State Attorney General’s Office, the law ensures a safe and controlled betting environment, with strict measures to prevent addiction and financial default.
Details / Context
The petition states that, “contrary to the claimant’s allegations, the Bets Law promotes a safe and controlled gaming environment, establishing strict prevention mechanisms.”
It also emphasizes that the regulated sector creates formal employment in technology, operations, and customer service, while increasing tax revenues for federal, state, and municipal governments.
The State also highlighted the creation of Lotema, its own state lottery, built with strict licensing criteria supported by federal and state law.
Future Outlook
Through this motion, Maranhão seeks to reinforce the role of state governments in shaping the regulatory framework for sports betting, promoting a balance between federal control and regional autonomy.
The case may set a precedent for other states to defend their local betting and lottery systems.
Regulatory and Institutional Topics
Maranhão’s action reflects the growing strength of state lotteries following the STF’s 2020 ruling authorizing their operation.
It also underscores the ongoing debate between federal standardization and state-level autonomy in Brazil’s iGaming legislation.
🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com