Brazil Directs Betting Revenue to Federal Police Fund

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has signed legislation that creates a new funding source for the Fund for the Equipment and Operationalisation of the Federal Police’s Core Activities (Funapol). The bill was approved by the Federal Senate on 8 July and required only presidential approval to become law.

The signing ceremony took place at the Planalto Palace in Brasília. During the event, President Lula said the proposal was developed through cooperation between the Ministries of Justice and Public Security, Planning and Budget and Finance, emphasizing the joint effort behind the initiative.

Part of Fixed-Odds Betting Revenue Assigned to Funapol

Under the new legislation, 3% of revenue generated by Brazil’s fixed-odds betting market will be directed to Funapol. The allocation is intended to strengthen the Federal Police by providing additional financial resources for its operations.

The law also authorises an extra BRL 200 million from the National Treasury’s unrestricted budget to be transferred to Funapol during 2026. According to President Lula, the measure was developed through interministerial cooperation rather than originating from the Federal Police or Congress.

Government Connects Measure to Security Priorities

The legislation further highlights the role of Brazil’s regulated betting market as a source of funding for public initiatives. While President Lula has previously expressed concerns about the betting sector, the new law channels part of its revenue toward public security.

Justice and Public Security Minister Wellington Lima said the additional funding forms part of the government’s broader strategy to combat organised crime. He noted that the resources will strengthen the Federal Police’s operational capacity while also supporting employee welfare and recognition.

Funding Supports Wider Public Security Reforms

Lima also linked the legislation to other federal security initiatives, including the Public Security Constitutional Amendment, currently under review in the Senate and the Raúl Jungmann Law, which was signed earlier this year.

Federal Police Director General Andrei Rodrigues welcomed the measure, stating that it will also help fund healthcare benefits for members of the Federal Police. The legislation forms part of a wider package of financial reforms aimed at strengthening the agency’s operational capabilities and workforce.