The National Ombudsman’s Office has presented a bill to Congress aimed at regulating the advertising of online gambling and betting. The initiative seeks to discourage online gambling addiction and its harmful effects on people in general, with a particular focus on protecting children and adolescents.
According to local press the bill is inspired by experiences from countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Belgium.
“Although there are existing regulations in Argentina that address some aspects related to gambling, none of them specifically and comprehensively regulate the advertising of online gambling services. The lack of regulation on the advertising of online gambling and betting, in light of the so-called online gaming addictions, leaves a legal void that can be exploited by the gambling industry, putting the mental health of individuals, especially young people, at risk,” the bill states in its preamble.
The key points of the proposed bill to regulate online gambling and betting advertising include a prohibition on advertising and promotion across all media channels, including digital platforms, television, radio, and print, with additional restrictions on advertising at artistic and sporting events. The bill also prohibits sponsorship of events or sports teams that primarily attract minors, requiring existing sponsorship contracts to end without renewal. Furthermore, operators are mandated to implement effective age verification mechanisms and maintain records of these procedures, which will be subject to audits by the relevant authorities.
If approved the Executive Branch would be tasked with promoting awareness campaigns to inform the public about the risks of online gambling addiction and the resources available for its prevention and treatment. Non-compliance with the law could result in penalties such as warnings, fines, and, in severe cases, the suspension or cancellation of licenses to operate online gambling and betting services.
If approved, the National Executive Branch must regulate the law within 120 days of its enactment, and the provinces and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires are invited to adhere to this regulation.
