The Chamber of Deputies has formalized the creation of the Parliamentary Front to Combat Gambling and Protect Children and Adolescents from the Risks of Online Gambling. The group’s main goal is to strengthen supervision and raise awareness about the impacts of gambling, especially among young people.
Federal deputy Helio Lopes (PL-RJ), leader of the front, emphasized: “Gambling is not child’s play. Every day we see news reports showing the harm that gambling has been causing. Parliament needs to act to protect our children.”
The launch event brought together several legislators and experts, as well as representatives of civil society and others interested in the topic.
Lopes also added: “We have to make the population aware of the risks of betting, such as over-indebtedness. In addition, we need to protect children and young people from misleading messages that sell the illusion of easy winnings.”
Discussions in Congress
Congressman Helio Lopes (PL-RJ) leads the group, which brings together, for the most part, parliamentarians who oppose the legalization of gambling. The formation of the group occurs at a time of intense debate about the consequences of sports betting in Brazil.
In an official document, members of the parliamentary group expressed their desire to make gambling and betting operations in the Chamber more difficult. They cited negative media reports and studies by entities such as Itaú, the Alana Institute and the Brazilian Society of Retail and Consumption (SBVC).
Along with the launch of the front, the deputy introduced Bill 567/2025. This bill proposes strict measures to increase security on online betting platforms. The measures include identity verification mechanisms, prevention of money laundering and protection of players.
Therefore, the text also provides for betting and playing time limits, with daily, weekly or monthly restrictions. In addition, the bill allows the use of self-exclusion tools. According to the parliamentarian, these measures aim to reduce the risks associated with gambling addiction.
Dangers of gambling disorder
During the event, deputies Bandeira de Mello (PSB-RJ) and Fernando Máximo (União-RO), also members of the parliamentary front, warned about the dangers of gambling addiction.
Fernando Máximo, vice president of the front, emphasized: “Studies prove that the mechanisms of gambling addiction are the same as those of marijuana, cocaine and alcohol. The Ministry of Health itself recognizes this problem as a public health issue.”
Bandeira de Mello highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating: “Gambling is a global reality, but we must be aware of the risks it brings. This parliamentary front has an essential mission and deserves our full support.”
Helio Lopes concluded by emphasizing the urgency of the issue. He stated: “We need to act effectively to defend children, adolescents and their families. The fight against gambling addiction must be immediate, protecting the psychological and financial health of children and adolescents.”
Other parliamentary initiatives
The National Congress has established two other parliamentary fronts dedicated to issues related to betting, gambling and eSports. Doctor Luizinho (PP-RJ) leads the Joint Parliamentary Front for Responsible Gaming, which has Senator Ciro Nogueira (PP-PI) as its vice-president. The group is made up of 202 deputies and four senators.
The front’s Bylaws state: “The entity aims to act in a coordinated and non-partisan manner, promoting the standardization, discipline and supervision of the lawful activity of games and lotteries in Brazil.” The objective is to promote legal, regulated and responsible gaming.
Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Front in favor of Electronic Games is led by Colonel Chrisóstomo (PL-RO). With the participation of 198 deputies, the group aims to support the development of the electronic games sector, especially in the competitive eSports modality.
