Tougher gambling restrictions left for the 15th Saeima to decide
The Saeima's Budget and Finance Committee on 21 October backed advancing amendments to Latvia's Gambling and Lotteries Law to a first reading. Further reworking is left to the next parliament, while the industry warns it could push players to illegal sites.
The Budget and Finance Committee of Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, on Wednesday, 21 October, supported sending amendments to the Gambling and Lotteries Law to a first reading. The committee is leaving further reworking of the proposals to the next, 15th Saeima. The amendments envisage stricter limits on the gambling industry in Latvia.
Proposed measures
The aim is to reduce addiction risks and to monitor gamblers' habits more closely. The measures include:
- a mandatory morning break in gaming halls;
- less conspicuous signs and shop windows;
- a personalised card for every player.
Industry objections
The gambling industry warns that the proposal is outdated and that the problems have changed. Industry representatives say the amendments could encourage people to gamble on illegal websites.
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