San Juan approves law to regulate online gambling

Neha Soni December 16, 2024

SiGMA news

The Chamber of Deputies of San Juan, Argentina, has passed a landmark legislation aimed at regulating online gambling and minimising harm for minors. The legislation comes amid growing concerns over the rapid expansion of online gaming operations and their impact on the region’s youth.

The legislation combines elements from three draft bills. This is a move that will unite efforts to establish a provincial programme for the promotion, awareness, and prevention of gambling addiction among children and youth. It will also include updated, stringent rules to govern online gambling.

Before this, San Juan was one of the few provinces in the country without any specific regulations related to online gambling. This has led to rising addiction rates in the region.

Deputy Franco Aranda, emphasising the urgent need for regulation, said, “Every day that passes, we see how sports are transformed into a gambling scene that ends up corrupting not only young people, families, and even the athletes.”

San Juan is also planning to launch a provincial programme to educate and raise awareness about the dangers of gambling addiction. The provincial programme will be especially focused on the need to safeguard vulnerable populations susceptible to gambling addiction.

Online gambling among youth

Deputy Aranda revealed statistics that showed 66 percent of those between 18-24 of age have admitted to engaging in online gambling.

Moreover, 48 percent of regular players spend three or more hours on a daily basis on gambling platforms. A concerning number of young players were spending money set aside for necessities on gambling.

Local government representatives have showed concern for the risks associated with the unchecked growth of online gambling that has been fueled by the expansion of technology and internet being readily accessible.

They noted that over 200 betting sites are available for free to youth in the region, generating an illusion of easy money. Many such operators continue their operations while disregarding player safeguards, which has exacerbated the issue.

The legislation also aims to reframe societal attitudes towards gambling. It aims to promote healthier form of entertainment and reiterate the role of family and community involvement in preventing forms of addiction. Lawmakers called on families, schools and community’s involvement to helping educate and guide the youth away from such adverse behaviours.

“According to specialists, gambling addiction can be compared to cocaine or heroin, which is why there is an urgent need for us to deal with this bill,” said Deputy Franco Aranda.