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A new legislative project has been proposed in Mexico to limit the advertising of online gambling platforms, especially during sports programs broadcast on free television as well as pay TV channels. The project was presented by federal deputy Jericó Abramo Masso, who is worried about the increasing number of casino and betting advertisements during high-view sporting events.
In the deputy’s opinion, the current situation is characterized by a prominent presence of online gambling advertisements integrated into sports programs. He believes that this situation leads to children and adolescents being exposed to messages that can be misleading, especially when advertisements promote gambling as an easy way to earn money.
Abramo Masso said that these messages can lead to the creation of unrealistic expectations. In his opinion, the promotion of betting as a way to easily earn money is “a false narrative” that could have a negative impact on the development of minors and could be a potential cause of problematic gambling behavior in the future.
Protecting Minors From Misleading Messaging
The deputy said that the legislative project was proposed after listening to the concerns of parents who were worried about the constant exposure of their children to gambling advertisements during sporting events with high audience views. These sporting events are often broadcast when a family audience is most likely to be present, increasing the chances that minors will be exposed to messages about betting platforms.
The deputy said that the problem is not only related to competition in the betting market but also to social responsibility. Advertising gambling as a source of excitement, success, and quick financial rewards could have a negative impact on the perception of minors, who may underestimate the risks involved.
The proposed law aims to find a middle ground between the freedom of commercial activities and the protection of children. Instead of completely prohibiting gambling advertisements, the proposed law proposes time restrictions to limit the prominence of these advertisements during the time when children are most likely to be watching television.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Law
Once passed, the proposed law will restrict the broadcast of gambling advertisements to the late hours of the night, after 10:30 p.m. The proposed law aims to ensure that children are not exposed to advertisements that may influence their emotional and psychological development.
According to the proposed law, betting companies are still free to advertise their services, but only outside family viewing hours. Abramo Masso clarified that the proposed law does not aim to ban legal business activities but to ensure that children are not affected by advertisements that may lead to the development of distorted views or unhealthy practices.
The proposed law has been presented to the governing board of the Cámara de Diputados, where it will be discussed by relevant committees before any possible debate in the full chamber of Congress.
Broader Regulatory Context
The proposed law is being presented to the legislative branch at a time when many countries around the world are reviewing the regulatory framework of gambling advertisements, especially in the context of sports. The proposed law in Mexico reflects the emerging policy debate about the relationship between betting companies, media coverage, and consumer protection, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Although it is yet to be seen how lawmakers will react to the initiative, the proposal does indicate that the promotion of gambling practices is under closer scrutiny in Mexico. If the proposal passes, it could change the way online gambling sites advertise their services.
As the debate continues in Congress, the bill is expected to attract the attention of operators, broadcasters, and interest groups alike, and this will be a major milestone in the development of the regulation of gambling in the country.
Source: SBC Noticias
