MPs from the GERB-UDS and MRF parliamentary groups have presented a proposal to amend the Gambling Law to the Bulgarian Parliament.
The parliamentarians who signed the proposals highlighted that there is widespread distribution of online gambling, organized by unlicensed operators. This causes significant harm to players who do not have the protection of their rights and budget revenues, because the taxes due by law are not paid. They therefore proposed a ban on access to websites through which illegal gambling, as well as payments, is organised.
From 50.000 to 200.000 leva is the fine foreseen for companies for websites and public electronic communication services that provide access to websites for the organization of gambling games by unlicensed operators. The same fine is also imposed on payment institutions intended to participate in online gambling to and from operators who do not have a license. Individuals are prohibited from taking part in gambling games organized by unlicensed operators and the fine for them is between 500 to 2000 BGN.
The bill bans gambling advertising on television, radio, online and in print, as well as on the facades of public buildings. According to the proposal, only advertising is allowed on billboards that are at least 100 meters from schools, as well as on the facades of gaming halls and casinos.
Another restrictive measure is gambling with slot machines and in a casino to be organized only in settlements with more than 5000 inhabitants. The exception is national localities and population localities no more than 30 km from roads, railways, river crossings.
It is also proposed to increase the required capital of companies applying for a license for slot machine games – from a minimum of 500.000 BGN. – 750.000 BGN A change is proposed in the distribution of funds collected from contributions for socially responsible behavior that gambling organizers must – half of the funds received to be provided to the Ministry of Health for programs for the treatment of gambling addiction I gamble.
The proposal was approved at first reading with 20 votes in favor by the budget committee of the National Assembly at first reading. The session took place in a meeting included in the plenary session of deputies.
The day before the deputies went on holiday to start the election campaign, the proposal was taken into consideration by the competent commission. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lyudmila Petkova also attended the meeting.
