Brazilian senate committee to review advertising restrictions
The Senate Sports Commission (CEsp) is set to review restrictions on sports betting advertising, during a meeting scheduled later this week. Authored by Senator Styvenson Valentim, bill PL 2985/2023 underscores the increasing vulnerability of users to abusive and misleading advertisements, especially among younger individuals who have easy access to online betting.
In the bill Valentim emphasizes that the sudden shift in the demographics of bettors, now predominantly consisting of youth, has created a pressing need for legislative action to establish boundaries on the industry. The senator cites concerns about impulsive behaviour facilitated by instant access to betting.
According to the Senate News Agency the proposal has received a favourable report from Senator Carlos Portinho, who has suggested amendments that impose various restrictions on advertising. Key measures include limiting advertising times on television and radio, banning promotions in print and electronic media (including online), and prohibiting participation from athletes, artists, influencers, and other prominent figures who could sway public perception or encourage betting.
Portinho’s report warns against unrestricted advertising, which he argues misleads audiences into believing that they might attain financial independence through winning bets. He also highlighted the detrimental impact such practices have on economically vulnerable groups.
Once reviewed by the CEsp, the bill will proceed to the Commission on Communication and Digital Law (CCDD), which will have the final say on the matter.
