Mexico has introduced a new legislative proposal aimed at tightening restrictions on online gambling advertising during live sports broadcasts.
The draft bill, presented by lawmakers in the Chamber of Deputies, seeks to limit the visibility and reach of betting promotions within televised sports coverage and other major live sporting events to protect younger audiences and discourage excessive gambling participation.
The bill was introduced by federal deputy Jericho Abramo Masso, who noted that these messages could lead to the creation of unrealistic expectations. In his opinion, promoting betting as a way to make easy money is a “false narrative” that can negatively impact the development of minors and could be a potential cause of problematic gambling behavior in the future.
Under the proposed measure, online gambling operators would be prohibited from airing betting advertisements during defined periods of live sports programming, with detailed definitions expected to be outlined as the bill progresses through committee review. Betting companies are still free to advertise their services, but only outside of family viewing hours.
Abramo Masso clarified that the proposed law does not aim to prohibit legitimate business activities, but rather to ensure that children are not exposed to advertisements that may lead to the development of distorted views or unhealthy practices.
The bill now moves through the legislative process, where debate and amendments are expected before any final vote
