In the wake of Brazil's recent ban on betting, Buenos Aires Senator Federico Fagioli has proposed a bill aimed at prohibiting most forms of gambling in the Buenos Aires province. This measure, dubbed the "Lula Law", seeks to repeal Chapter VIII of Provincial Law No. 15,079, replacing the current online gambling framework with a sweeping ban. However, traditional lotteries, quinielas, and authorized draws would continue to be permitted under this legislation.
If passed, Fagioli's bill would outlaw online slots, roulette, blackjack, poker, and any other games where participants wager money or prizes. He posits that digital platforms have eroded the traditional barriers to gambling, enabling users to bet from any location and at any time via internet-connected devices. Fagioli further expressed concerns that the rise of online gambling presents new regulatory challenges for provincial authorities focused on prevention and oversight.
The proposed legislation would also forbid licensed operators from accepting new deposits or facilitating fund transfers for online gambling activities. Additionally, all forms of advertising, including promotions, bonuses, and sponsorships related to online betting, would be banned.
Should the bill become law, operators would be mandated to refund any remaining balances in user accounts and provide reports to the Provincial Institute of Lotteries and Casinos detailing pending bets, outstanding prizes, and account funds.
This proposal stands in stark contrast to another bill put forth by legislators Facundo Tignanelli and Micaela Olivetto, which aims to enhance regulatory measures for online gambling rather than impose an outright ban. Tignanelli has asserted that a complete prohibition on online gambling would require national legislation, highlighting the divide among Buenos Aires lawmakers regarding the current legality of online gambling in Argentina.
As it stands, Fagioli's bill must navigate the entire legislative process before any of its provisions can take effect.
