Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies is set to vote on an urgent request for a bill aimed at addressing gambling addiction, as political pressure grows around the social impact of online betting.
The proposal, introduced by deputy Ruy Carneiro, seeks to establish a national program to support individuals experiencing addiction to online betting and gambling, known as ludopathy.
According to Carneiro, the rapid expansion of betting platforms has created measurable pressure on both public health and household finances, requiring a structured response from the state.
Studies cited by the proposal suggest that spending on betting is increasingly affecting family budgets, with some data indicating an impact comparable to, or exceeding, traditional credit-related debt.
The bill outlines an integrated care model delivered through Brazil’s public systems, including the Unified Health System (SUS) and social assistance network (SUAS). Support would include medical, psychological, psychiatric and social services, aiming to provide treatment pathways for individuals affected by problematic gambling behaviour.
In a related move, Brazil’s Ministry of Health has already launched a free telehealth service through SUS to support individuals experiencing gambling-related harm.
This program is expected to provide around 600 consultations per month and aims to reach individuals who may be reluctant to seek in-person care due to stigma or accessibility barriers and it’s available to individuals aged 18 or older, as well as family members seeking guidance.
If the urgent request is approved, the bill could move directly to a plenary vote without passing through additional committees.
Brazil’s Ministry of Health has also introduced a care guide for individuals experiencing gambling-related problems
