Buenos Aires Province Lawmakers Propose Facial Recognition and Strict Session Limits for iGaming

Lawmakers in the Province of Buenos Aires have introduced a comprehensive legislative bill aimed at enforcing aggressive safer gambling controls on licensed online betting platforms, including mandatory facial recognition and strict usage limits.

Drafted by Provincial Deputy Mayra Mendoza, the proposed framework targets all seven online casino and sports betting operators currently licensed by the Provincial Institute of Lotteries and Casinos (IPLyC)—a list featuring major brands such as Bet365, Betano, Stake, Betsson, Betwarrior, Bplay, and Sports.bet.

Addressing the driver behind the legislative push, Mendoza highlighted the growing impact of digital betting on younger demographics:

Cyber-gambling addiction has consolidated as a complex issue affecting all age groups, showing up with particular aggressiveness in adolescents and young adults.

The Peronist deputy warned that the 24/7 accessibility of online betting presents a distinct risk profile compared to traditional land-based venues due to its seamless integration into mobile devices.

Key Operational Restrictions and Mandatory Biometrics

The bill introduces some of the most stringent session and access controls seen in the region:

• Session Caps: Playtime is limited to 60 minutes per session. Once reached, platforms must automatically log the user out and block re-entry for a minimum of one hour.

• Daily Login Limits: Users will be restricted to a maximum of three platform logins per 24-hour period, after which access is blocked until the following day alongside mandatory responsible gambling messaging.

• Real-Time Display: Operators must continuously show elapsed session time and cumulative spend on-screen, with automated behavioural alerts interrupting play if loss-of-control indicators are triggered.

• Biometric Identity Checks: Mandatory real-time facial recognition will be required for account logins, deposit and withdrawal requests, and for placing wagers that exceed regulatory minimums.

Failure to comply with the proposed rules could result in severe administrative penalties, ranging from heavy financial fines to temporary licence suspensions or permanent revocation of operating permits across the province.

Upon enactment, the Executive Branch will appoint an enforcement authority to establish technical standards and oversee a 90-day operator compliance window.

Oversight and Technical Evolution

The draft legislation also mandates the creation of a Permanent Working and Monitoring Group within the Buenos Aires Chamber of Deputies. Operating under the Gambling, Lottery, and Gambling Addiction Prevention Commission, the body will collaborate with civil society groups and tech specialists to review the law's performance and propose technical adaptations over time.

Reflecting on the need for modern regulatory tools, Mendoza concluded:

Updating our rules to fit new dynamics is a necessary step to address cyber-gambling addiction from a comprehensive and human perspective. The goal is for regulation to evolve alongside technology, prioritizing citizen well-being and offering a safety framework against systems designed for indefinite engagement.

The bill has been formally referred to the Gambling, Lottery, and Gambling Addiction Prevention Commission for initial committee review following its inaugural meetings earlier this year.

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