Buenos Aires City has passed legislation barring registered child-support debtors from opening or using accounts on licensed online betting platforms. The measure was approved by 43 votes to 14, with all opposition votes cast by the La Libertad Avanza bloc.
The law amends existing Ley No. 269, which governs the Registro Público de Alimentantes Morosos, a public register of child-support delinquents. Individuals listed in the register are prohibited from opening accounts, depositing funds, placing wagers or withdrawing winnings on platforms authorised by Lotería de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires (LOTBA). The restriction covers both gambling and skill-based gaming.
Operators must check clients against the register in real time before account opening or processing transactions. If an existing account holder is added to the register after registration, the operator must immediately suspend the account and notify both the register and the relevant court. Checks may only confirm presence on the register; data cannot be stored, used commercially or for profiling.
The city executive will develop the technical verification system together with LOTBA. Operators face sanctions under municipal gambling regulation for non-compliance. Implementing regulations must be issued within 30 days of the law's publication in the official gazette.
The bill's sponsor, legislator Leandro Santoro, criticised opponents: 'I cannot believe anyone thinks it is acceptable for a father to bet money instead of supporting his child.'
