A new bill introduced in Argentina aims to prohibit gambling advertising at sports and community events across the Buenos Aires Province. The proposal, submitted by provincial senator Malena Galmarini, is designed to combat problem gambling and protect the social role of sports clubs.
The new legislation is primarily about football where, in recent years, many football clubs now have betting partner sponsorships, including some of the biggest clubs in the country: Boca Juniors, River Plate, Racing Club, Independiente, and San Lorenzo. Nowadays, 9 of the 30 clubs that participate in the Primera Division de Argentina have logos or brands of gambling companies on their jerseys: Boca Juniors (representing with Betsson); Racing Club (representing with Betsson); River Plate (represented by Betano); Independiente (represented by Sportsbet); San Lorenzo (represented by Casino de Buenos Aires Online).
This new law would prohibit the display of gambling logos, names and brands on team shirts and jerseys. This would also prohibit the advertising for gambling establishments within 100 metres (330 ft) of any sporting venues (for example, stadiums). Additionally, any establishment offering a product or service related to gambling would not be allowed to name a stadium, sports complex.
The government is proposing this legislation in terms of a public health issue, particularly for children who may be exposed to gambling advertisements. According to the new law, gambling advertisements have become part of the fabric of sports culture and specifically the sport of football.
Provincial senator Malena Galmarini said:
The legislation achieves substantial goals such as public health and prevention among children of pathological gambling. This is a proportional legislation because it neither prohibits the activity nor its advertising, but bans its access to the community sports environment.
If the bill is passed, the enforcement of the law will be the responsibility of the Buenos Aires Province Subsecretariat of Sports and other local agencies responsible for the protection of consumers and public safety of children.
Fines will range between 500 and 50,000 units for violations of the new legislation.
