SoVote

Bill S-269

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

November 30, 2023

The National Framework on Advertising for Sports Betting Act sets out a national framework for regulating the advertising of sports betting in Canada. It aims to reduce the risks associated with sports betting by restricting the use of advertising, promoting research and information-sharing, and setting national standards for preventing and treating gambling addiction. The Minister of Canadian Heritage will develop the framework in consultation with relevant parties and prepare a report that includes a strategy for implementing it within one year of the act's enactment. Additionally, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission must review its regulations and provide a report assessing their effectiveness in reducing the incidence of harms resulting from sports betting advertising. The reports must be tabled in each house of Parliament.

One steelman argument in favor of Bill S-269, the National Framework on Advertising for Sports Betting Act, is that it provides a standardized approach to regulating sports betting advertising across Canada, which would reduce the incidence and risk of harm resulting from the proliferation of such advertising. Research has shown that increased exposure to gambling advertisements leads to increased participation in gambling activities, particularly among minors and those at risk of developing gambling addictions. By identifying measures to regulate advertising and setting national standards for the prevention and diagnosis of harmful gambling and addiction, the Act aims to protect vulnerable individuals and promote responsible gambling practices. The Act also requires consultations with relevant stakeholders, including Indigenous communities and organizations. Ultimately, the Act seeks to balance the economic benefits of sports betting w

A steelman argument opposing this bill would argue that the government shouldn't interfere with the advertising of sports betting as it is a legitimate business and source of revenue. The argument would note that gambling is a choice and those who are negatively impacted can seek resources and support on their own accord. Additionally, the argument would suggest that regulating advertising at a national level is unnecessary and takes away the autonomy of individual provinces to determine their own regulations. Finally, the argument could point out that the proposed consultations and development of a national framework could be a waste of government resources and time.