Romania Sets Gambling Restrictions for Cities Under 15K Population

Romania’s parliament has voted in favor of a series of strict gambling restrictions on the sector, marking an important shift in the regulatory landscape. 

The list of regulations includes a ban on slot machines as well as the shutdown of gambling halls in smaller settlements with a population under 15,000 people.

The new decisions that have already been enacted have sparked a lot of controversy while also attracting praise from anti-gambling supporters. 

Uncommon Display of Unity 

The enactment of the new measures follows months of dormancy for the country’s proposed gambling law, which all of a sudden found itself thrown into the spotlight, quickly passing through all parliamentary committees and receiving the unanimous seal of approval from all political parties. 

This was quite an uncommon display of unity shown by Romania’s political area. 

The measures received 243 votes in favor, two against, and four abstained. 

Despite the bill’s unanimous support, the opposition has already raised concerns over the possible collusion between representatives of the gambling sector and government officials. 

More accountability and transparency are required as a result of accusations regarding undue influence and backroom deals, which have cast a shadow over the entire legislative process. 

Commercial Premises Require Town Hall Certificates 

According to the fresh legislation, to be allowed to operate slot machine games, commercial venues need to be located in administrative-territorial units that count a population that does not go over 15,000 inhabitants, as per a certificate released by their town halls. 

The law also states that it is prohibited to provide, directly or indirectly, gambling-related services to unauthorized entities and specific technical measures to prevent illegal access to online gambling.

The same regulation requires the National Gaming Office (ONJN) to create and maintain an online public register containing a list of all licensed operators in the country. 

The register must receive updates daily. The new measures that require a technical implementation will be detailed in an order of the ONJN president, which will be issued within 90 days of the time the ordinance will come into effect. 

The same measure also forbids operators from providing direct and indirect associated gambling services to unauthorized entities as well as a series of technical measures that would prevent illegal access to online gambling. 

Last week, the country’s government sparked debate with the freshest appointment of celebrity hairdresser Cristian-Gabriel Pascu as the vice president of the National Gambling Office.

Last October, Romania announced its plans for higher fees and stricter demands for operators.