In a groundbreaking move to combat the growing concern of problem gambling, the Ontario government has announced a ban on online gambling ads featuring athletes and celebrities. The decision comes in the wake of a sharp increase in online gambling activity during the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns about the potential harm these advertisements could have on vulnerable populations.
The new regulations, which were announced by Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Christine Elliott, prohibit online gambling operators from using the likeness or image of athletes, celebrities, or any other public figures in their advertising campaigns. The ban applies to all forms of online gambling, including casino games, sports betting, and online poker.
Minister Elliott stated that the ban is aimed at protecting consumers, particularly young people and problem gamblers, from the potentially harmful effects of online gambling. “We know that the use of athletes and celebrities in gambling advertising can create a false sense of security and glamorize the activity, leading to increased risk of addiction and other negative outcomes,” she said in a statement.
The ban has been praised by addiction experts and advocacy groups, who have long been calling for greater regulation of online gambling advertising. Dr. Jennifer Jenkins, a clinical psychologist specializing in addiction, expressed her support for the new regulations, stating that “the use of athletes and celebrities in gambling ads can be particularly insidious, as it can create a sense of trust and credibility that may not be warranted.”
The ban on online gambling ads with athletes and celebrities is part of a broader initiative by the Ontario government to address problem gambling in the province. The government has also announced plans to establish a new regulatory body to oversee the online gambling industry and to implement additional measures to protect consumers, such as mandatory responsible gambling messaging and age verification requirements.
The move has been met with some criticism from the online gambling industry, which argues that such restrictions could hurt their ability to attract customers and compete in the marketplace. However, Minister Elliott has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to putting the needs of consumers first, particularly when it comes to protecting vulnerable populations from the potential harms of gambling.
Overall, the ban on online gambling ads featuring athletes and celebrities is a significant step towards promoting responsible gambling practices and safeguarding the well-being of Ontario residents. With these new regulations in place, the government is sending a clear message that the health and safety of its citizens come first, even in the fast-paced world of online gambling.
