With the recent passage of a new measure by the Chamber of Deputies, Argentina is making major progress in changing its gaming and betting laws. The bill, which has 139 votes in favor, 36 against, and 59 abstentions, intends to control online gambling, address gambling addiction, and create a national monitoring system.
Key Provisions of the New Bill
The approved bill incorporates a range of measures designed to address gambling’s societal impact while ensuring provincial autonomy in implementation. A major aspect of the reform is the introduction of a unified regulatory model, which provinces can choose to adopt. Legislator Mónica Frade emphasized the importance of consistent tools to mitigate gambling-related harm, stressing the need for a balanced approach that respects provincial governance.
However, there was debate over the specifics. A minority-backed proposal from Silvana Giudici focused on stricter protective measures, particularly concerning young people. Giudici’s version calls for enhanced regulations on gambling advertising, including restrictions on influencer partnerships and welcome bonuses, as well as biometric controls to limit minors’ access to gambling platforms.
One of the bill’s most significant provisions is a comprehensive ban on gambling-related advertising and promotions. This includes measures to restrict influencer partnerships and prevent the normalization of gambling, especially among vulnerable populations. In addition, the bill imposes a ban on gambling for anyone under the age of 18, reflecting a strong commitment to youth protection. Another critical provision targets illegal online gambling platforms, which attract nearly 78% of Argentina’s online gambling population.
While some lawmakers, like Rogelio Iparraguirre, view the bill as a necessary step in addressing broader social issues, others, such as Nadia Márquez, have raised concerns. They argue that while the bill includes valuable reforms, it also imposes excessive regulations that may limit solutions to gambling-related problems.
The bill now moves to the Senate for further discussion, where additional debates are expected. The success of this legislation will depend on finding a balance between national regulations and respecting provincial autonomy while effectively addressing the growing challenges associated with gambling.
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