The proposal from Deputy José Guimarães also requires the automatic exclusion of players showing signs of gambling disorder based on the screening tests conducted by the ‘Bets’. In addition, it determines that operators must send weekly messages to users about the importance of setting loss limits and practicing proper risk management when betting.
The bill prohibits operators from accepting payments via credit card — a measure already included in existing legislation and strictly followed by sports betting and online gaming platforms.
The National Strategy to Combat Betting Addiction will be implemented through the following actions:
I – Public awareness campaigns on the risks of betting addiction;
II – Mandatory alerts on operators’ electronic channels about gambling disorder and its classic signs;
III – Creation of comprehensive mental health strategies for individuals with gambling disorder;
IV – Cooperation and funding for initiatives and programs focused on diagnosis and treatment;
V – Ongoing training of health and social-assistance professionals on gambling disorder;
VI – Oversight of gambling and betting advertising, with restrictions on schedules and channels aimed at vulnerable audiences;
VII – Encouragement of scientific research on gambling disorder and its impacts;
VIII – Development of criteria and indicators for detecting risk factors associated with gambling addiction;
IX – Restrictions on betting advertising;
X – Development of actions to prevent depression and suicide associated with compulsive gambling.
In his justification, José Guimarães highlights the exponential growth of betting in Brazil and the importance of protecting users in terms of health, social welfare, and financial security.
The text states that “although the sector was recently regulated by Law No. 14,790 of December 29, 2023, which established guidelines for the operation of sports betting, a significant gap remains in the Brazilian legal framework: the absence of a structured and comprehensive public policy specifically aimed at addressing betting addiction and mitigating its social, psychological, and economic harms.”
Regarding the behavioral screening tests created by health professionals, the bill argues that they “enable interventions before irreversible harm is caused to individuals and their families.”
The proposal also includes the automatic exclusion of users identified with signs of dependency, ensuring that vulnerable individuals are not continually exposed to stimuli that could worsen their condition.
The bill now awaits review by the Chamber’s Executive Board to determine its legislative proceedings.
Source: GMB
