
The draft law on gambling has been revised by the Ministry of Finance, which has reflected the proposals made by the deputies and has been discussed again in the Parliamentary Committee on Economy. The changes in the draft introduce stronger criteria for licensing sports betting companies, giving an advantage to those who offer the most.
Vasilika Vjero, Deputy Minister of Finance: "The draft has undergone changes. The criteria for companies that must be licensed have been revised. Licenses start at a minimum level and the highest bidder will have the advantage. The age limit for those who play TV bingo is lowered from 21 to 18 years old. It is a much more complete draft, it guarantees a reduction in informality, stronger licensing criteria and a transparent scoring system and selection of companies.
As for the proposal for online casinos, the Ministry of Finance has not agreed with it.
Eduard Shalsi, Chairman of the Economy Commission: "As long as they are informal, my proposal was for online casinos to be part of the law and to give the opportunity to companies that will apply for licenses to offer online casinos as well. To be foreseen in the formulation of the new law. But there was no agreement from the finance representatives regarding online casinos".
The revised draft will be discussed again in the committee at the beginning of next week and is expected to be approved in the plenary session on February 8.