Castelli Blocks Online Betting on Municipal Networks

The Municipality of Castelli, in Argentina’s Buenos Aires Province, has introduced a new measure restricting access to online betting platforms across municipal internet networks. The initiative makes Castelli the first municipality in the country to implement this type of digital restriction as part of efforts to reduce gambling exposure among young people.

The policy was approved under Ordinance 4023-E-082/25 and signed into effect by Mayor Francisco Echarren.

Restrictions Cover Schools and Public Internet Access

Under the new rules, access to online gambling websites will be blocked on all internet services operated by the municipality. The restrictions apply to networks available in schools, government offices and public Wi-Fi locations.

Alongside the technical blocks, local authorities plan to introduce educational campaigns focused on raising awareness about the risks associated with problem gambling, particularly among children and teenagers.

Municipality Takes Independent Action

The decision comes amid ongoing national discussions about gambling regulation and youth protection in Argentina.

Earlier this year, President Javier Milei’s administration presented proposals aimed at preventing gambling-related harm. Critics argued that the initiative did not include a comprehensive ban on advertising by licensed online betting operators.

Mayor Echarren said municipalities should take stronger action to protect younger generations from gambling-related risks.

According to the mayor, a growing number of teenagers are engaging with online betting through mobile devices, making preventative measures increasingly important at the local level.

Internet Provider to Support Enforcement

To implement the restrictions, the municipality will work with local internet provider Cooperativa CUECCA, which will block access to betting websites across municipal networks.

Officials also plan to coordinate with educational institutions to introduce both technical safeguards and awareness activities within schools.

The ordinance forms part of a broader national conversation surrounding underage gambling and the role of local governments in limiting access to online betting services.

Similar Measures Emerging Elsewhere

Castelli’s decision follows recent regulatory developments in other parts of Argentina.

The province of Misiones recently approved legislation focused on protecting children and adolescents in digital environments while addressing online betting risks.

That framework introduced tighter rules for gambling advertising aimed at minors, established a registry for gambling operators and advertisers, strengthened responsible gambling requirements, created reporting mechanisms for violations and introduced school protocols designed to address digital threats.

The legislation also established a provincial prevention fund, requires periodic assessments of online gambling’s impact on minors and supports long-term child protection initiatives within digital environments.