Buenos Aires Considers Online Gambling Ban Modeled on Brazil

In Argentina's Buenos Aires province, a new regulation modeled on Brazil's online gambling ban has come up for discussion. Those who drafted the proposal argue that the convenience offered by online games has removed traditional barriers and exposed players to serious risk of harm.

The proposal, put forward by Senator Federico Fagioli and referred to as the "Lula Law," draws inspiration from the online gaming and betting ban introduced by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. In Brazil, the ban was imposed within about two years, shortly after the sector had started. Industry stakeholders are unhappy with this sudden decision because they had made large investments.

If the proposal becomes law, operators active in Buenos Aires will not be able to offer online casino games and sports betting. Online lotteries and raffles are kept outside the scope of the ban. Legal experts say the regulation should be taken seriously. Tomás García Botta of MF Estudio Abogados says the law could realistically be enacted, but adds that he does not fully understand its objective.

García Botta notes that the regulation could face constitutional challenges. He also argues that banning legal online gambling would lead to an increase in illegal online betting. In his view, authorities should focus on fighting illegal gambling rather than prohibiting the regulated sector.

The provincial legislature is also working on a separate package. It calls for tighter biometric identity checks, advertising restrictions, and the creation of a new office to combat illegal gambling. The proposal brings together 27 separate bills that include safe gaming measures and mandatory self-exclusion tools.