Brazil Lawmakers Consider Ban on Betting Ads in Public Contracts

A new bill in Brasília could reshape how betting companies appear in public campaigns and official events, especially those tied to the government.

Good to Know

• Bill 1911/25 targets betting ads in government contracts, not the platforms themselves.
• Concerns focus on youth exposure, addiction risks, and family debt in lower-income households.
• The measure still allows legal platforms to operate normally in Brazil.

The Legislative Chamber of the Federal District (CLDF) is considering Bill 1911/25, introduced by Deputy Robério Negreiros. The proposal would ban advertising from electronic betting platforms and games of chance in publicity contracts signed by the Executive and Legislative branches.

If approved, official events sponsored by government bodies would no longer feature betting logos or promotional content. The intent is to reduce constant advertising pressure while still respecting individual choice.

Negreiros explained his reasoning by pointing to mounting concerns around vulnerable groups. He said:

“Recent data show that online betting platforms have significantly contributed to increased family indebtedness in Brasília, especially among lower-income households, who commit a substantial portion of their income in the expectation of quick gains.”

Balancing Freedom and Protection

The deputy clarified that the bill does not interfere with the operation of licensed platforms. Instead, it aims to tackle the normalization of gambling by limiting exposure. “Individual choice will be preserved but the constant advertising pressure that can induce compulsive behaviour will be removed. This is a proportional measure that balances economic freedom with social protection,” he stated.

By reducing the visibility of betting ads in public campaigns, the proposal looks to ease social costs linked to addiction and limit promotional content reaching minors.

The bill has already been sent to permanent committees for review. Should it gain approval, it will advance to a plenary vote at the CLDF, where lawmakers will decide whether betting promotions remain tied to public contracts or are cut off entirely.

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