Belo Horizonte Enacts Groundbreaking Policy to Combat Gambling Addiction
Belo Horizonte has passed a new law targeting gambling addiction, focusing on prevention, treatment, and education amid rising online betting concerns.
- • Belo Horizonte enacted Law 11.964 to prevent and treat gambling addiction.
- • The law aims to provide education, treatment, and social reintegration for compulsive gamblers.
- • Over 4 million Brazilians are affected by gambling addiction, worsened by online betting platforms.
- • The city council unanimously approved the law, highlighting intersectoral collaboration and funding allocation.
Key details
Belo Horizonte has implemented Law 11.964 to tackle the growing issue of gambling addiction, particularly intensified by online betting platforms. The law went into effect on January 21, 2026, aiming to provide education, support, and treatment for individuals affected by compulsive gambling behaviors. Recognizing gambling addiction as a significant public health problem, the legislation emphasizes humanized care and respect for dignity to help those struggling with the condition.
According to council member Pedro Rousseff, over four million Brazilians suffer from gambling addiction, with digital platforms exacerbating compulsive behavior. Data also reveal that approximately 27.5% of Bolsa Família funds have been spent on online gambling, highlighting the financial risks to vulnerable populations. The policy mandates intersectoral collaboration among various public agencies and allocates funds from the municipal budget for its implementation. Additionally, the law was unanimously approved by the city council, and further proposals are underway to restrict advertising by online gambling companies.
This public health initiative signifies a pioneering approach in Brazil to address ludopatia, focusing on educational campaigns, specialized treatment services, and social reintegration efforts. The law aims to mitigate the negative impacts on mental health, family relationships, and personal finances that have risen in tandem with the expansion of online gambling.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
