The Brazil Federal District, home to country's capital Brasília, is a unique federative unit in Brazil's Center-West Region, distinct from states because it has no municipalities, instead being divided into administrative regions.
For the bill’s author, the growth of online betting has raised legitimate concerns regarding the development of compulsive behaviors and gambling addiction, especially among young people and vulnerable populations.
In justifying the proposal, Negreiros points out that studies show that massive exposure to betting advertisements can normalize risky behaviors and contribute to the development of gambling disorder, a medical condition characterized by the uncontrollable urge to continue gambling.
“Recent data show that virtual betting platforms have significantly contributed to the rise in household indebtedness in Brasília, especially among lower-income groups, who commit a substantial share of their family income to betting in the expectation of quick winnings,” argues Robério Negreiros.
In addition to reducing the normalization of gambling behavior in society with the aim of protecting household finances, the proposal seeks to limit children’s and adolescents’ exposure to gambling-related promotional content, promote healthier financial behaviors, and reduce the social costs associated with gambling addiction.
According to the legislator, the advertising ban would not prevent licensed platforms from operating. “Individual freedom of choice will be preserved, but it will eliminate the constant advertising pressure that can induce compulsive behavior. It is a proportional measure that balances economic freedom with social protection,” says Negreiros.
The bill has been referred to the standing committees for review and, if approved, will move on to a vote in the CLDF plenary.
Source: GMB
