Misiones Enacts Law to Curb Underage Online Betting

The Argentine province of Misiones has officially introduced a new legal framework designed to protect children and adolescents in digital environments while addressing the growing issue of underage online gambling.

The legislation, Law II No. 42, came into force after its publication in the Official Gazette. Approved by the Provincial Chamber of Representatives on 18 June and enacted through Decree No. 1,156, the law establishes measures aimed at limiting minors’ exposure to online betting and improving safeguards across digital platforms.

New Measures to Reduce Underage Gambling

The legislation introduces several controls intended to reduce children's exposure to online gambling.

Among the key provisions is a ban on advertising betting services that targets minors or uses influencers, characters or other content associated with children.

Misiones will also establish a registry covering betting operators, advertisers and agencies involved in online gambling campaigns.

Licensed operators will be required to implement measures that prevent minors from viewing gambling advertisements and must retain relevant compliance records for five years.

In addition, every gambling advertisement must display responsible gambling information, including details about potential risks and available support services.

Reporting System and School Protocols

The new framework also creates a digital reporting platform where suspected breaches of the regulations can be submitted.

Educational institutions will be expected to follow specific response procedures when dealing with viral online challenges or other digital activities that may place children or teenagers at risk.

Authorities also plan to introduce an early warning system that uses monitoring tools and artificial intelligence to detect situations that could affect minors.

Administrative sanctions may be imposed on operators, advertisers, intermediaries and other parties that fail to comply with the new requirements.

Long-Term Prevention Strategy

Beyond enforcement, the province plans to invest in prevention initiatives focused on digital safety and responsible gambling awareness.

Funding will support public education campaigns, training programmes and assistance services related to gambling harm in digital environments.

The designated enforcement authority will also carry out a review every two years to assess the impact of online betting on children and adolescents.

An intersectoral advisory council will be created to support public policy development and monitor implementation of the new framework.

The province will additionally observe Healthy Digital Habits Week every year during the second week of February as part of its broader prevention strategy.

The legislation also reinforces the existing prohibition on minors participating in any form of gambling, whether online or land-based, reflecting Misiones’ continued focus on protecting young people in digital spaces.