The American Gaming Association (AGA) has expressed its support for a new law designed to stop human trafficking. 

New Law Aims to Certify Businesses in Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention

The Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act, introduced by Congressmen David Valadao of California and Troy Carter of Louisiana, seeks to create a certification program under the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Blue Campaign. This will certify employers who teach their staff how to spot and fight against human trafficking.

Bill Miller, AGA President and CEO, said: “Businesses across hospitality, entertainment and transportation have a responsibility to bolster the front lines in the fight against human trafficking and the gaming industry is wholly committed to this imperative. The AGA thanks Reps. Valadao and Carter for their commitment to combating this detestable crime and for recognizing businesses that share this commitment.”

Congressman Valadao pointed out that California has the highest number of reported cases related to human trafficking in America. He emphasized the importance of training workers employed in key industries with skills necessary for detection and intervention concerning this crime. 

Valado further stated that often employees working within hospitality, entertainment or transportation are among the first people who come across situations involving trafficking and their attentiveness can save lives. Thus, the congressman called on all government levels to unite efforts towards raising awareness about and combating the growing threat posed by this type of offense.

Congressman Calls for Action Against Human Trafficking in Major Tourist Destinations

Congressman Carter noted New Orleans’ status as one of the major tourist destinations in the US which unfortunately also serves as a hotbed for human slavery rings.

Carter further added: “This initiative honors the commitment of businesses actively working to combat these crimes and encourages more companies to join the cause. We must do everything in our power to prevent the sale and transportation of human lives.”

The proposed law directs the DHS to establish a Blue Campaign Certification Program which will grant yearly recognition to employers that adequately educate their workers on human trafficking awareness. Those businesses that join will get a completion certificate showing their fight against the vice.

Also, within two years of the implementation of this act, DHS must submit an assessment report about its impact and progress.In this regard, AGA has always been ahead of others. It launched an online training program in January 2024 together with RG24seven Virtual Training.

This initiative, rolled out during Human Trafficking Prevention Month, offers free training for gaming industry employees. It contains educative videos and quizzes followed by a recognized certificate once one completes them successfully.

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GambleAware chief executive Zoë Osmond has robustly defended the charity’s work following a recent complaint from the Good Law Project. This complaint, filed in March, questions how effectively GambleAware disseminates information and accuses its trustees of failing to provide adequate gambling harm education.

The Good Law Project argues that GambleAware’s underperformance stems from its industry ties and its “reliance on industry funding.” In response, Osmond reaffirmed the charity’s independent stance, stating to iGB that GambleAware operates independently from the gambling industry.

Osmond has once again reiterated GambleAware’s independence and expressed confidence that the complaint will not be upheld. The Charity Commission is still assessing whether it needs to take action regarding the complaint.

“Our robust governance and commissioning practices ensure that the industry has no influence over our operations. GambleAware’s independence has been widely recognised by a range of stakeholders including the government, as evidenced in the gambling white paper,” Osmond stated.

She further criticized the Good Law Project’s complaint, labeling it as based on “misleading and outdated information.” While confident that the complaint will be dismissed, Osmond voiced concerns over the potential negative impact of such claims on GambleAware’s services and their beneficiaries.

Concerns Over Impact on Vulnerable Players

GambleAware is not just dismissing the complaint as baseless but also highlighting its potential adverse effects on at-risk gamblers who rely on the charity’s support services. The charity fears that such claims may discourage individuals from seeking help.

Osmond elaborated, “The deeply stigmatized nature of gambling harms often makes it difficult for individuals to reach out for help. Maintaining the credibility and reputation of essential support services is crucial to reaching people before their gambling issues become catastrophic.”

She emphasized that undermining these services risks harming not just those directly seeking help but also the families and friends affected by their loved ones’ gambling problems.

Defending Treatment Effectiveness

To bolster its defense, GambleAware pointed to statistics from the National Gambling Support Network. These statistics reveal that nine out of ten vulnerable players who complete their treatment see an improvement in their condition. For those whose conditions did not improve, 69% did not complete their treatment.

GambleAware also highlighted the significant reach of its resources, including its website, which attracts 6.5 million visits annually. Furthermore, the charity’s national stigma public health campaign has reached over 95% of the population, showcasing its extensive efforts to address gambling harms.

GambleAware remains steadfast in its commitment to providing independent and effective support to those affected by gambling harms. The charity continues to defend its practices and reputation against the allegations made by the Good Law Project, underscoring its vital role in the fight against gambling-related issues.

Source: “GambleAware defends its position after ‘misleading and outdated claims’”. iGamingBusiness. May 20, 2024.

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Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has opted not to veto the proposed amendments to the Gambling Law, which include a ban on gambling advertisements in the media.

President Radev had previously indicated that he was considering the changes to the Gambling Law and was awaiting input from his advisors before making a final decision.

Despite objections from media outlets, gambling operators, sports clubs, and other businesses between the readings, the prohibition on gambling advertisements in the media was approved by a significant majority of deputies during the final session of the 49th National Assembly. Some stakeholders argued that public discussion should precede the adoption of such a significant measure.

The initiative for these amendments came from GERB and DPS and was introduced unexpectedly during the final days of the 49th National Assembly by Yordan Tsonev (DPS) and Temenuzka Petkova (GERB). The bill rapidly moved through the legislative process, passing its first reading in the budget committee and subsequently receiving approval in the plenary session. An extraordinary meeting of the Committee on Budget and Finance was convened to expedite the voting on the amendments before deputies began their pre-election recess.

Controversial Ban on Gambling Ads

The new amendments, which include a total ban on gambling advertisements in the media, have sparked controversy. Various stakeholders have expressed their concerns and objections. Media outlets, gambling operators, sports clubs, and other businesses affected by the law have argued against the ban, suggesting that a public discussion should precede such a significant legislative change. However, despite these objections, the amendments were passed with a substantial majority.

President Radev’s decision not to veto the amendments has finalized the legislative process, bringing about significant changes to the Gambling Law in Bulgaria The new prohibition on gambling advertisements in the media marks a substantial shift in the regulatory landscape for gambling in the country. Despite the objections and calls for public debate, the amendments have been approved and will soon come into effect.

Source: “Bulgarian President Approves Gambling Law Amendments”. European Gaming. May 17, 2024.

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Javier Silvania, Minister of Finance in the government of Curacao, has released a statement in which he condemns what he calls “misinformation” regarding the country’s new gambling law.

The National Ordinance for Games of Chance, a new legislation that will completely overhaul how gambling is regulated in Curacao, was submitted to the country’s Parliament for approval in December 2023. Until the new legislation is approved, Curacao will continue to operate under the existing National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard legislation.

In the statement the Minister of Finance admitted that the National Ordinance for Games of Chance and its submission to Parliament was expected to generate a “wider debate.” However, Javier Silvania was keen on warning against the spreading of misinformation regarding the legislative process.

The Minister of Finance explained that he noticed “a significant amount of misinformation” and strongly urged “against the further propagation of unverified rumors or speculation” regarding the new legislation. “Full and accurate information can only be guaranteed when issued by either the ministry itself or the Curacao Gaming Control Board,” Silvania added.

Current License Issuing Process Remains in Place

The Minister of Finance also expressed his full support for the Curacao Gaming Control Board as it will transition towards the new legislative framework. “To suggest otherwise would be reckless and misleading,” Javier Silvania warned.

Moreover, the Minister of Finance confirmed through the respective statement that the current license issuing process remains in place. According to Javier Silvania that also means that “the Critical Milestones published on 20th December 2023 are likewise unaltered.”

The Critical Milestones document detailed the ministry’s process for transitioning from the current framework to the new one. One of the key dates in the process will be 31 March 2024, because from this date, the registration of sub-licenses on the Gaming Control Board website and the subsequent application for a direct license will no longer be possible. Moreover, no new license extensions or renewals of master licenses will be possible after this date.

The Curacao Gaming Control Board has also renewed all gambling licenses and from 1 January 2024, all license holders were allowed to begin displaying a digital seal on their online casino websites. The application process for operators kicked off on 1 September 2023 through the opening of the online portal, which began accepting account registrations for applicants and sub-licence holders on 1 November 2023.

Source: “Curaçao minister of finance blasts LOK “misinformation”. iGaming Business. January 11, 2024.

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Levi & Korsinsky, a prominent law firm, has united individuals affected by the recent Caesars Rewards Casino data breach to participate in a potential lawsuit. The cyberattack compromised the personal information of more than 65 million Caesars Rewards members, raising concerns of potential fraud and identity theft. However, it is yet unclear whether the victims can receive compensation.

The Firm Will Help Protect Customer Rights

Levi & Korsinsky is inviting individuals who have received notifications regarding the data breach to get in touch. The law firm stressed that participation in this process carries no cost or obligation. Levi & Korsinsky will ascertain whether those impacted by the breach are eligible for compensation and may pursue legal action.

The potential compensation concerns Caesars Rewards members who received an official notice regarding the data breach involving their personal information. Cyberattacks of this nature often contain malicious intent, as hackers may seek to sell the stolen data on the dark web, engage in identity theft, or commit financial fraud. Companies may bear responsibility for not adequately safeguarding their customers’ privacy in such cases.

This announcement comes amid a series of data breaches that have affected companies in the gaming and entertainment industry. MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment have faced class-action lawsuits alleging their failure to protect customer data. Levi & Korsinsky’s involvement may herald a turning point for these legal battles as the company possesses substantial experience with such cases.

Cyberattacks Are an Everpresent Danger

A recent Microsoft report tied the cyberattacks against Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts International to a broader hacker collective known as Octo Tempest. The attackers are infamous for many successful attempts on wealthy individuals’ wealth and assets. A Bloomberg report alleged that Caesars paid millions to the attackers to preserve critical company data.

Despite the hacking incidents and following legal actions, Caesars and MGM have reported impressive financial results for the respective quarters following the data breaches. Caesars revealed consistent growth in land-based and online operations, contributing to its total net revenue of nearly $3 billion.

While the hacking debacle temporarily affected some venues, business has returned to normal.
The ongoing lawsuits highlight the importance of cybersecurity measures and proper training. Groups like Octo Tempest primarily rely on social engineering to obtain vital credentials and gain access to restricted systems. The recent attacks represent a costly wake-up call for the gambling industry as leading operators scramble to update their protocols at the risk of another major breach.

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French blockchain enthusiasts have a reason to rejoice as the Sorare law was passed with an overwhelming support. Under the new law, which would provide the foundation for a regulatory framework for games using NFT and crypto features, such titles will not be classified as gambling.

Backed by 437 voters and opposed by 77, the so-called Jonum (games with monetizable digital objects) regime is set to seek balance between innovation and player protection.

The Sorare law still needs approval from the Constitutional Council but is an important step toward the legitimization of NFT and crypto games. The council will now review the voted measure and decide its future. The council has the power to reject the Sorare law, which would be a suboptimal outcome for the future of blockchain technology in France.

If the law is passed, however, the Jonum regime could be the development that companies tapping into blockchain technology desire. In any case, the regime would likely still need tweaks and amendments, considering the novelty of the crypto gaming vertical.

France Seeks to Regulate Crypto Games

Because of their inherent similarities, crypto games risked being classified as gambling, which is subject to higher taxes.

While crypto games will not be considered gambling, their compliance will still be overseen by France’s watchdog, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ). Like in gambling, the ANJ will require crypto gamers to provide their age and prove their identity when withdrawing funds. However, they will not need to verify their identity when registering an account. Web3 games will also be subjected to a number of other regulations they would be required to follow.

Experts have suggested that the Sorare law would give preferential treatment to crypto games, which is why existing operators might be inclined to explore the opportunities the blockchain sector offers. Pari Mutuel Urbain, for example, already offers a crypto-based fantasy racing game called Stables and is likely to further dabble in Web3 technology.

While some companies are sure to adapt, casino groups have slammed the new law, accusing the government of not inviting them to participate the discussion. Under French law, only casino companies with a physical presence can offer online gambling. Many of these companies believe that the regulation of Jonum is a bad move that would usher in an age of illegal gambling.

Some even fear that some online casinos may use NFT payouts to circumvent France’s gambling rules.

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Peru plans to charge more to issue gambling licenses to online casino operators. After approving amendments to its current rules, the country will charge iGaming companies three times the amount it initially planned.

The new rules were approved by several notable bodies, namely the Commission of Economy, Central Bank, Ministry of Finance, Financial Intelligence Unit and the Congress of Peru. The organizations amended Law 31557, greenlighting a new regulatory framework in the country.

The original law was introduced last year, paving the way for regulated gambling in the South American country. It was personally signed by President Pedro Castillo last August and established the initial regulatory framework for the Peruvian iGaming industry. The law appointed the Ministerio de Comercio Exterior y Turismo (MINCETUR) as the regulator and introduced the initial version of the local taxation regime.

Peru Introduced Changes to Its Taxation Regime

As a result of the newly-introduced changes, companies will now have to pay $810,000 for a license. Retail licenses have been removed and, as a result, points of sale will have to pay a warranty of $6,715 to offer gaming.

Furthermore, the new rules introduce a 12% point of consumption tax, which comes after APADELA, Peru’s sports betting association, criticized earlier versions of the law. In previous variants, Law 31557 did not require foreign operators to pay this tax, only requiring them to pay a net win tax.

Speaking of taxes, earlier amendments read that the cash bonus applied to iGaming and online sports betting will continue to serve as the guideline for calculating the tax on such offerings.

Peru Recently Prevented Anonymity in iGaming

Other recently-discussed changes include the introduction of mandatory know-your-customer rules that will allow companies to only take bets from registered customers. Previously, customers could instead remain anonymous.

In addition, regulated operators will be required to offer their products under local domains. These include:

It was also decided that no new gambling halls should be created within 150 meters of schools and religious buildings. However, existing casinos will be able to continue operating as usual.

Non-compliant companies and individuals risk a variety of fines and may even serve jail time. Violators can earn up to four years in jail, while companies can have their licenses temporarily suspended or revoked.

The new rules are expected to enter into effect 120 days after the technical regulations have been specified. Their introduction follows recent consultations that discussed the regulatory framework.

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Malta’s Parliament has introduced a bill that would allow the EU member nation’s courts to ignore enforcement of any foreign judgment. Such a far-reaching measure, seen by many as illegal in the European Union, includes decisions by courts outside of Malta concerning gaming law. In fact, the proposed change in Maltese law is included in the country’s Gaming Act (Amendment 55).

The decision to shake up EU courts is most likely a direct response to Germany and Austria’s recent legal actions against online gambling operators licensed and based in Malta but offering services in other EU countries – specifically Austria and Germany.

EU Law, a Complicated Framework of Balance

While the authorities in those and other countries assert and may have found or participated in creating case law that supports their position, nothing is ever quite as simple as it seems in such a sprawling union of member states, each accepting compromise and asserting their own interests.

Many countries have been able to win court cases allowing them to establish gaming monopolies within their own borders ut EU courts have often struggled to balance the right of the member state to protect its citizens (and that is often the only reason such exclusionary laws are allowed), and the rights of other member states to provide services across the whole of the Union in the spirit of free trade and against monopolization.

According to a report on G3 Newswire, the bill was first read into the record on April 24th, 2023. Austrian and German lawyers representing their respective countries say that Malta’s Bill 55 – “blatantly undermines European Rule of Law by blocking the fundamental rights of EU citizens and Residents”.

One of the three conflicting legal principles that may be up for further definition, subordination, or adjustment is states’ practicing a right to develop country-specific gaming legislation to protect nationals from harm – specifically criminality as defined by the state’s own laws.

While stated without reference by code, some observers have stated that regardless of the “offending entities” being licensed in a member state and providing the ordained free movement of goods and services, the right to protect citizens from harm trumps a fellow state’s right to free trade.

For context, europa.eu explains the principle like this: “One of the keystones of the European Union (EU) internal market is the principle of the free movement of goods – the creation and development of an area without internal borders, where there are no unjustified restrictions to trade between EU Member States.”

National Gaming Monopolies Exist with Free Trade

However, according to the law in Austria, only one entity is allowed to offer online gaming in the country with all other providers being illegal by internal definition. Austria’s gaming laws are fragmented, however, ultimately only the federal monopoly holder, Casinos Austria’s subsidiary “win2day” is recognized by the government as a legal provider.

Germany on the other hand game out of the gate shooting upon the launch of their nascent regulatory authority stating it would prosecute any and all “outside” providers not recognized and licensed in Germany.

Austrian lawyers have filed thousands of cases against outside operators over the years and have been awarded claims of more than €350m throughout the course of several decades. Cases from long ago are still being processed against operators, often as class actions. The Maltese bill would stop the collections of those and other claims were it to pass in Malta and be upheld in courts of the EU writ large.

Malta has spent decades advancing electronic offshore gambling as a critical part of its economy, giving weight to the continuance this long into the tenure of the European Union – however – the chances of Bill 55 amendment to stand so all-encompassing is doubtful. If written to only protect gaming operators its chances would be nil.

German and Austrian lawyers are asking the European Commission to stop the law from being fast-tracked and rely heavily in their arguments on European Union’s (EU) Brussels I Recast Regulation, which deals directly with the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments inside the EU.

Source: New Bill to protect island’s igaming operators from EU claims, G3 Newswire, May 19, 2023

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The Indian state of Tamil Nadu has passed a new bill to ban online gaming in spite of last week’s IT law amendments. The state is firm in its belief that regulation will not solve the gambling problems it faces.

In Tamil Nadu, the so-called Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling & Regulation of Online Games Bill was just cleared by Governor Ravi. This marked the second time he had been sent this bill and followed earlier attempts to crack down on gambling.

The government said that it will not ban down on its decision, despite the newly-introduced IT rules. For reference, last week an amendment introduced changes to existing IT regulations in the state that provide the regulatory framework for online gaming.

In spite of that, the head of Tamil Nadu’s online gaming panel, Justice K Chandru, favors the introduction of a blanket ban that would ban all gaming. He believes that introducing a regulatory framework would be insufficient.

Chandru said that the only way forward, he believes, is banning online gaming. He argued that regulation will still allow people to play online, which would mean that the state would experience no real change.

The Bill Was Previously Delayed

The Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling & Regulation of Online Games Bill was passed by the government in October 2022. However, Gov. Ravi did not sign it into law because he wasn’t sure if the state can actually pass it. He returned the bill on March 6, 2023, asking for additional clarifications, despite receiving clarifications in November 2022.

The bill has the full support of the DMK-led government and will ban all online money games in the state. As a result, it would any operator offering such products from providing them in the province.

While gambling is usually a state subject in India, the passing of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling & Regulation of Online Games Bill will likely lead to a dispute between the state and central governments. Experts expect online gaming bodies to try to fight the ban in court.

Tamil Nadu has long fought against online gambling. Real-money games have led to spikes in gambling harm, sparking concerns within the government. To make matters worse, people have been taking their lives over lost bets, adding an extra layer of urgency to the situation.

In February, India banned hundreds of gambling and betting apps in addition to a number of loan services.

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Late last week Ministers Harris and Browne published Justice Plan 2023. A framework building on Plans in 2021 and 2022 and outlining over 140 specific actions to continue building stronger, safer communities in Ireland.

One of those elements is the previously unreachable Gambling Regulation Bill (GRB) [2022]

which was published Friday, 2 December 2022, and has had a better-than-average chance to become law since that time.

The legislation marks a watershed achievement in Irish history as it sets out to repeal existing gambling law in Ireland which is seen by many as antiquated and incompetent in nearly every respect.

In order to become law, the legislation must move through the parliamentary process including approval by Oireachtas – two houses of the national parliament and a signature by the president,

Establishes Licensing and Regulatory Body

The new framework establishes a regulatory and licensing body that is currently being referred to by the working name of the “Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland” (GRAI) [Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann].

Minister of State with responsibility for Law Reform and Youth Justice; Browne said: “Justice Plan 2022 delivered significant progress across the justice system and, in particular, it delivered one of my key priorities, to publish the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022.

“As committed to in the program for government, this bill is a true milestone and long-awaited legislation. It is an important and necessary bill and reform, designed to meet the challenges of gambling responsibly in 21st century Ireland.”

The Department of Justice (An Roinn Dlí agus Cirt) is headed up by Minister for Justice: Simon Harris, TD; Minister of State for Youth Justice and Law Reform: James Browne, and Secretary General of the Department: Oonagh McPhillips. The DOJ will participate in managing the creation of the GRAI.

Process to be Facilitated by Department of Justice

According to a report in Gaming Compliance News, the DOJ said: “We will also support the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority, and the CEO designate of the authority, as we progress the Gambling Regulation Bill towards enactment and commencement later this year – introducing a robust regulatory and licensing system for gambling in Ireland.”

The priority to “support the establishment of the Gambling Regulation Authority” is found in the second section of Justice Plan 2023 under the goal, “Improve access to justice and modernize the courts system”.

The announcement of priorities, support, and goals noted in its conclusion: “It is important to note that the milestones and achievements reflected upon from 2022, as well as the actions and objectives for the year ahead, provide just a snapshot of the substantial program of work being delivered on by the Department of Justice and across the sector comprising 29 bodies and agencies”.

Source: Ministers Harris and Browne publish Justice Plan 2023, Ireland Department of Justice, April 6, 2023

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