Buenos Aires Discusses Gaming Law Proposal
The Industry and Mining Commission of the Buenos Aires Senate has begun discussions on a comprehensive gaming law proposed by Carlos Kikuchi, leader of the Libertad Avanza block. This legislative initiative aims to create an integrated regulatory framework for gaming in the province, focused on public order, eliminating illegal gambling, and protecting minors and vulnerable individuals.
The proposal also suggests an updated tax system to generate funds directed toward critical areas such as health, education, social assistance, and sports. The legislation emphasizes restrictions to prevent minors and vulnerable individuals from accessing gambling activities, while promoting responsible gambling awareness.
Kikuchi expressed the need for modern legislation to replace outdated regulations, noting that gaming issues such as online gambling and declining bingo activity are increasingly problematic. “We’ve encountered outdated regulations, and we want to create a unified gaming law. In casinos, labor issues are prevalent, bingo halls are struggling, and online gambling is exposing younger audiences, some as young as eight, to addiction. Our plan includes biometric control mechanisms, ad regulation, and installing signal blockers in schools,” Kikuchi stated.
Collaborative Approach and Stakeholder Involvement
Senator Sergio Vargas, president of the Industry and Mining Commission and co-author of the proposal, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to establish a comprehensive legal framework. “We’re working openly, inviting stakeholders from different gaming sectors to contribute. This project aims to regulate online gambling within a holistic law,” Vargas explained.
To refine the legislative framework, the commission gathered input from industry representatives across various gaming modalities. Participants included leaders from lottery and betting agencies, who highlighted the challenges posed by illegal gambling and online platforms, which have led to the closure of approximately 200 agencies in the province.
Challenges Faced by Traditional Gaming Sectors
The representatives advocated for incorporating online gaming within regulated establishments and called for tax relief for licensed operators to maintain financial stability. Representatives from the horse racing industry echoed concerns about illegal gambling, noting its impact on funding for their sector and underscoring the need to protect the 800,000 jobs generated by the industry.
This comprehensive gaming law proposal thus aims to support economic sustainability for legal operators, strengthen consumer protections, and curb illegal gambling’s impact on traditional and online gaming sectors in Buenos Aires.
