A new legislative proposal in Paraná seeks to introduce an annual awareness campaign focused on the risks associated with gambling activities, particularly in the context of growing online betting participation.
The bill (PL 118/2026), presented by State Deputy Cristina Silvestri at the state’s legislative assembly, would establish the “State Week for Awareness of the Risks of Gambling” in the official calendar.
The initiative is set to take place each year during the week of 17 February, aligning with Brazil’s day for combating pathological gambling.
According to Silvestri, the expansion of digital betting platforms has increased the urgency for public awareness initiatives.
She highlighted concerns related to mental health, financial stability and the broader social impact of compulsive gambling behaviors.
“In recent years, we have seen a significant increase in gambling, especially in the digital environment. It is crucial that public authorities also work to raise public awareness about the risks this behavior can pose to mental health, financial life and family relationships,” she said.
The proposal outlines a range of educational and preventive measures, including lectures, seminars, workshops and public campaigns delivered through both physical and digital channels.
Importantly, the measure does not use any mandatory public spending or asks for the creation of new administrative obligations. Instead, it allows activities to be integrated into existing programs across health, education, social assistance and consumer protection sectors, depending on available resources.
The proposal will now move through committee review stages before being submitted for a plenary vote within the state legislature.
Lottopar, Paraná’s state lottery, is conducting a new round of on-site inspections across municipalities as part of its compliance and consumer protection strategy
