João Pessoa’s City Council has approved a bill prohibiting advertising by betting operators across municipal public spaces and events, making it the latest Brazilian city to advance restrictions on gambling marketing.
The proposal now awaits approval from Mayor Léo Bezerra.
Under the measure, betting advertisements would be banned from billboards, LED screens, bus stops, public squares, urban clocks, walls and other municipal advertising structures. The restrictions would also apply to cultural, sporting and educational events organized or supported by the city administration.
Supporters of the bill argue that the measure is intended to protect vulnerable groups, particularly minors and individuals facing financial difficulties, amid growing concerns over gambling-related debt and addiction.
João Pessoa follows a path already taken by other municipalities.
Recently, courts in Bahia have restricted betting advertisements in the national festivity of São João.
Earlier this year, Teresina implemented similar restrictions covering outdoor advertising and municipal assets, with local authorities citing concerns about the social impact of online betting, particularly among young people and lower-income communities.
In Santos, São Paulo, city councillors also approved legislation aimed at limiting betting advertising, while proposals are under discussion in other municipalities including Belo Horizonte and Goiânia.
In the south of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul has also proposed similar measures and it was questioned by Brazil’s gambling authority due to constitutional issues.
Several of the initiatives extend beyond traditional advertising restrictions. Some proposals would also prohibit betting operators from securing naming rights agreements involving public buildings and facilities, a model commonly used in sports venues.
Brazilian lawmakers are currently advancing two federal bills that would prohibit betting sponsorships in football
