Two Canadian senators are urging the prime minister to introduce a nationwide ban on sports betting advertising, arguing that the rapid expansion of single-event wagering has created a growing public health issue.
According to CBC, Senators Percy Downe of Charlottetown and Marty Deacon of Waterloo have written to the prime minister requesting that the federal government direct the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to prohibit all advertising for sports betting apps and websites.
Their appeal, supported by 40 additional senators, warns that the surge in betting promotions is effectively turning Canadians’ mobile phones into what they describe as “pocket-sized casinos.” The letter references CBC Marketplace findings showing that gambling advertising now makes up approximately 21% of the airtime during a typical sports broadcast. Another collaborative study between Marketplace and UK researchers found that sports viewers are exposed to gambling messages roughly three times per minute during televised games.
Sen. Downe said the situation has accelerated since amendments to Bill C-218 legalized single-event sports betting in 2021. He noted that wagering options now extend far beyond predicting match outcomes, with platforms offering bets on micro-events – for example, which player will score within the next five minutes. According to Downe, this level of accessibility has drawn more people into gambling and led some to experience harmful consequences. He acknowledged recent regulatory changes, such as restricting sports celebrities in ads, but argued that these measures are insufficient. He also likened the current environment to historic tobacco advertising, suggesting that a comprehensive ban would significantly reduce harm.
Mental health professionals have also raised alarms. Halifax counselling therapist Elizabeth Stephen told CBC she has observed a noticeable increase in sports betting ads during broadcasts. She warned that this exposure can strongly influence young viewers, whose decision-making abilities are still developing. Stephen argued that even without a full ban, stricter advertising guidelines are essential because gambling is now deeply embedded in professional sports culture.
Some of her clients, she noted, find it difficult to watch games due to the constant volume of betting promotions, with one individual describing the experience as triggering and overwhelming.
Political momentum for reform is also building. Charlottetown MP Sean Casey said he agrees with the key concerns outlined in the senators’ letter and emphasised the social harms associated with pervasive gambling marketing. He pointed to ongoing legislative efforts, including Bill S-211, which aims to establish a national framework for sports betting advertising and is currently moving through the House of Commons. Casey described the bill as a practical step toward addressing the issue, though he acknowledged that broader restrictions are still under debate.
The senators maintain that while individual vulnerabilities cannot be eliminated, stronger federal regulation can limit the opportunities for gambling companies to exploit them.
