The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, shedding light on the current state of the online gambling industry in Europe and emphasizing the urgent need for balanced regulation. The report is a comprehensive overview of the association’s and its members’ efforts to promote sustainable and responsible gambling while addressing the growing issue of black market gambling.

Addressing Black Market Gambling

The EGBA’s report highlights a significant concern: the rise of black market gambling across Europe. CEOs from leading operators, including Flutter, Entain, Evoke and Kindred warn that stringent regulations in countries like the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Sweden are inadvertently driving players towards unregulated offshore sites. These sites often lack basic consumer protections and are primarily profit-driven, posing severe risks to players.

Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter Entertainment, alongside other prominent CEOs, emphasized in the report, “Severe restrictions in these countries prevent an attractive and competitive offer to players that steers them toward safer, locally regulated websites.” The consensus is clear: while enforcement against black market operators is crucial, creating competitive, regulated online markets is the only effective solution to safeguard players.

The Importance of a Balanced Approach

The report advocates for a balanced regulatory framework that not only ensures robust consumer protections but also maintains the competitiveness of the legal market. The EGBA stresses over-regulation can make illegal alternatives more appealing, especially to vulnerable players. In France, for instance, the number of players using black market websites now exceeds those using regulated sites, according to data from the country’s gambling regulator.

“Competitive, regulated online gambling markets are the only effective solution,” the report states. The EGBA calls on national policymakers to design regulations that protect consumers without driving them to unsafe alternatives.

Progress in Responsible Gambling

Despite the challenges posed by black market gambling, the EGBA report highlights significant progress in promoting responsible gambling within the legal market. In 2023, a record 65% of European gamblers used safer gambling tools, up from 60% in 2022. This increase is attributed to a 49% rise in safety messages sent to players, with over a third being personalized based on individual playing behavior.

The report notes that 65% of customers displaying potentially problematic play either improved or stabilized their gambling behavior following safety interventions. This underscores the effectiveness of proactive measures and personalized communication in promoting safer play.

Enhanced Player Protection Measures

The EGBA and its members have made substantial investments in developing advanced safety tools and player intervention mechanisms. These systems leverage health experts, technology, and AI to provide a personalized approach to player safety. The goal is to analyze individual behavior, identify risks, and trigger appropriate interventions to encourage safer gambling practices.

In 2023, 21 million customers had one or more safety tools activated on their accounts, a 14% increase from the previous year. Deposit limits remain the most popular tool, used by 70% of customers who voluntarily activate safety measures.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future

The report also highlights the broader contributions of EGBA members to European society, including significant financial support for problem gambling research, education, and treatment. In 2023, contributions to these areas increased by 25%, reaching €61.2 million.

The EGBA is committed to fostering a culture of sustainable and responsible gambling. The report outlines plans for the fourth edition of European Safer Gambling Week in November 2024, aiming to surpass previous records for engagement and participation.

The EGBA’s 2024 Sustainability Report is a call to action for regulators and policymakers to balance consumer protection with market competitiveness. By fostering a well-regulated and attractive legal market, Europe can effectively combat the risks posed by black market gambling and ensure a safer gambling environment for all players.

Source:

EGBD | European Gaming & Betting Association | Sustainability Report 2024 [pdf]

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The Albanese Government has launched a comprehensive review into the regulation of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries as part of its ongoing efforts to minimize the harms associated with online gambling.

This review aims to deepen the Government’s understanding of the impacts these types of lotteries have on the community and to evaluate whether regulatory changes are necessary. An Issues Paper has been released to inform the review process.

Understanding Online Keno and Foreign-Matched Lotteries

Keno is a traditional game of chance where players select numbers to win prizes. Historically played in clubs and pubs, keno is now also available online in some Australian States and Territories. Foreign-matched lotteries allow Australians to participate in lottery draws conducted overseas.

The review follows a recommendation by the Senate Standing Committees on Environment and Communications, which suggested a 12-month review into the regulation of keno-type lotteries under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA).

Scope and Consultation of the Review

The Government will conduct targeted consultations as part of this review, seeking input from various stakeholders, including harm minimization advocates, community and charity organizations, academics, State and Territory governments, newsagents, and the wagering industry.

The Issues Paper addresses several key areas:

• The nature and size of the online keno and foreign-matched lotteries market in Australia.
• The impact of existing, new, and emerging keno-type and foreign-matched lotteries.
• Adverse experiences of customers, including loss of deposits or non-payment of winnings.
• The relevance of the definition of an ‘excluded lottery service’ under the IGA.
• Policy options such as credit and digital payment bans or other restrictions to reduce gambling harms.

Ongoing Efforts to Combat Gambling Harm

This review is part of the Government’s broader agenda to tackle online gambling harms in Australia. The Government is also working through its response to the House of Representatives Inquiry into online gambling and its impacts on those experiencing gambling harm.

Recent Measures to Reduce Gambling Harm

Several measures have already been implemented to mitigate gambling harms:

• Launching BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register, with over 22,000 Australians self-excluded from online wagering and promotions as of April 2024.
• Mandating customer ID pre-verification for all new online wagering accounts to prevent children from gambling and to protect those registered with BetStop.
• Banning the use of credit cards for online wagering, effective from June 2024.
• Introducing mandatory minimum classifications for gambling-like content in computer games, starting in September 2024.
• Replacing the ‘Gamble Responsibly’ message in wagering advertising with new, evidence-based taglines.
• Implementing nationally consistent staff training for online wagering companies.
• Requiring online wagering companies to send monthly activity statements to their customers, detailing wins and losses.

Government Commitment to Reducing Gambling Harm

Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, stated: “The Albanese Government has a comprehensive agenda to minimize online wagering harms. The growth and availability of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries is particularly concerning. It is important to understand the impact these two products are having on the community, including vulnerable Australians and small businesses. Feedback will ensure any changes the Government may make are well-balanced and fit-for-purpose.”

Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, added: “Our Government takes gambling harm seriously and we are committed to protecting consumers, including their families and the community, from gambling-related harm. This includes continuous review and work to address all drivers of gambling harm such as the regulation of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries. Our Government has already taken major steps to minimize and combat the increasing prevalence of people experiencing gambling harm in Australia and will continue to do so.”

Source:

Review into the impact of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries, minister.infrastructure.gov.au, July 15, 2024.

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On Thursday, June 27, the Michigan Legislature finalized an agreement on the state’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget, earmarking $1.9 million to support the addition of 14 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff positions at the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). These new positions are crucial for expanding the MGCB’s regulatory capacity, particularly in internet gaming and sports betting, among the fastest-growing gaming markets in the U.S. This move aims to enhance protections against illegal activities and ensure a fair gaming environment.

Expansion of Regulatory Capacity

The additional funding will enable the MGCB to bolster its regulatory operations significantly. With the influx of 14 new FTE positions, the agency can better manage the increasing demands of the growing gaming market in Michigan. The Wolverine State has seen rapid growth in both sports betting and internet gaming, necessitating a more robust regulatory framework to maintain integrity and prevent illegal wagering.

In addition to the staffing boost, the MGCB will allocate another $3 million from its FY2025 budget to continue its “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming campaign. Launched on March 1, 2023, this campaign provides valuable tips and information to help Michigan citizens gamble responsibly and avoid the pitfalls of problem gambling.

Support for Compulsive Gambling Prevention

A significant portion of the new budget focuses on responsible gaming initiatives. The Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund will see a $3 million increase, doubling its previous allocation. These funds will enhance the 24/7 Gambling Disorder Helpline operated by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. Additionally, the funding will support gambling research, educational programs for youth, and existing treatment options for those struggling with gambling addiction.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams expressed his gratitude, stating, “The MGCB’s increased contribution, from $3 million to $6 million, to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund demonstrates our proactive approach towards responsible gaming. Together, we are safeguarding the industry’s integrity while prioritizing the well-being of Michigan citizens.”

The bipartisan budget agreement now awaits Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature before becoming law. Once signed, the funding allocations will take effect on October 1, marking the beginning of the state’s FY2025 budget year.

Ongoing Regulatory Actions

As Michigan navigates its dynamic gaming industry, the MGCB continues to take decisive actions against illegal operators. In May, the MGCB issued a cease and desist order to Bovada, an offshore sportsbook, demanding it stop accepting customers from Michigan. The Costa Rica-based sportsbook was given 14 days to comply or face legal action for violating several state gaming laws. Bovada has since exited Colorado and is banned in New York and Maryland.

The MGCB also oversees the state’s daily fantasy sports market, which has seen regulatory changes. Late last year, the board banned pick’em style DFS contests due to their resemblance to player prop bets, demonstrating the MGCB’s commitment to maintaining a fair and regulated gaming environment.

Source: 

Michigan Gaming Control Board to increase regulatory capacity with additional staff, contribute $6M to Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund, michigan.gov, June 27, 2024.

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The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has announced a comprehensive inquiry into the regulation of bingo, inviting Victorians to help shape a fairer and more modern bingo-playing environment. By working with industry stakeholders and the community, the Commission aims to understand the challenges within the sector and explore ways to improve regulatory and industry practices, ensuring that bingo remains a social, safe, and fair activity.

Commercially run bingo generates significant revenue, with reported earnings of $107 million in FY23, surpassing Keno’s $61 million. Bingo is a popular game among many communities, offering social interaction and the potential for prizes, with a portion of the proceeds designated to fund charities.

Adapting to Modern Bingo

“Recent years have seen the commercial bingo landscape modernize, shifting from traditional paper-based gameplay to electronic enhancements with substantial jackpots,” said Fran Thorn, Chair of the VGCCC. “Given this evolution, it is crucial for us to assess and address issues of fairness, integrity, and the potential for gambling harm, particularly among at-risk groups such as seniors, First Nations communities, women, and lower-income individuals.”

Despite regulatory oversight, the Commission continues to receive reports and allegations of unlicensed operators and potentially fraudulent activities. The inquiry will examine whether current bingo regulations are fit for purpose, the susceptibility of cash-based transactions to criminal activities, and the extent to which profits support community organizations.

Community Participation and Inquiry Focus

“This is an opportunity to understand how bingo works and how it is evolving with technology. We understand the social outlet that bingo provides for many community members. We want to understand the risks, reduce the potential for harm, and put a stop to any behaviors threatening the integrity and fairness of the game,” Thorn added.

The VGCCC is inviting all interested parties, including customers, industry participants, community organizations, and concerned citizens, to participate in the inquiry and contribute to shaping the future of Victoria’s gambling landscape. The Commission’s Strategic Inquiries Unit (SIU) will support the inquiry, focusing on understanding risks and emerging issues within the gambling industry and seeking ways to improve practice and regulatory oversight.

Focus Areas of the Bingo Inquiry

The inquiry will concentrate on the bingo sector, particularly in commercial settings and charitable fundraising contexts. Bingo is regulated under the Gambling Regulation Act 2003 (Vic) to ensure community organizations benefit from profits, practices that undermine public trust are eliminated, and bingo center operators act fairly in providing commercial fundraising services.

The inquiry will address several key areas:

• Understanding the customer experience of playing bingo in fundraising and commercial settings.
• Examining the role of bingo in fundraising, including the involvement of charities and not-for-profit entities.
• Investigating the practices of entities and individuals within the bingo industry.
• Identifying ways to improve regulatory and industry practices.

Why Focus on Bingo?

Bingo is enjoyed by people of all ages and can provide social connections and cognitive benefits such as improved memory and concentration. It is also a significant means for community and charitable fundraising. However, the landscape has changed considerably in recent years, with a shift from paper-based to electronic gameplay and larger jackpots.

The VGCCC has received reports of unlicensed operators and potential fraudulent activities, raising concerns about whether community and charitable organizations are receiving their fair share of profits. This has led to questions about the fairness, integrity, and potential for gambling harm, particularly among vulnerable groups such as seniors, women, people on low incomes, and certain First Nations and migrant communities.

The VGCCC is committed to preserving the integrity of bingo operations and ensuring they remain social, safe, and fair for all Victorians. To participate in the inquiry, the VGCCC will engage with the industry and community through discussion papers, venue visits, surveys, and meetings with interested parties.

Source:

“Keeping bingo social, safe and fair”. VGCCC. June 6, 2024.

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Brazil’s Ministry of Finance has achieved significant progress toward regulating its burgeoning gambling industry by introducing the Secretariat for Prizes and Betting (SPA). This strategic move is part of a broader governmental initiative to enhance control and bring legal oversight to the rapidly evolving landscape of gambling within the country’s borders.

A New Regulator for a New Age

This regulatory drive finds legislative backing in Law No. 14,790 of 2023. Enacted by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, this law addresses fixed-odds betting intricacies and introduces significant changes to existing laws. It delineates taxation criteria, outlines rules for commercial exploitation, defines revenue distribution mechanisms, and establishes sanctions.

The focal point of SPA’s mandate is efficient regulation of the fixed-odds sports betting market, encompassing sports betting and online gambling. The secretariat will also actively manage processes related to lotteries and commercial promotions, working in tandem with broader anti-money laundering initiatives. Furthermore, SPA will establish and enforce responsible gambling policies safeguarding vulnerable groups, especially minors.

The new Secretariat will also carry out actions to detect and prevent money laundering, as well as monitoring the market, aiming to establish responsible gambling policies.

Brazil Ministry of Finance statement

Within the larger organizational framework, the Ministry of Finance will host eight secretariats, with SPA emerging as a pivotal player. Structurally, SPA will operate through three key sub-divisions: Authorization, Monitoring and Inspection, and Sanctioning Action. The collective effort will involve 38 dedicated professionals who will dedicate their efforts to creating a safe and sustainable market.

Enforcement Effectiveness Remains Paramount

The enactment of Law No. 14,790 marks a critical milestone, filling a regulatory void that persisted for years. Despite the legalization of fixed-odds betting in 2018, the absence of specific inspection and taxation rules left the sector operating without proper oversight, exposing stakeholders to potential scams and fraud. This advancement will ensure such domains receive the necessary transparency, remaining subject to comprehensive oversight.

In a collaborative effort, SPA’s activities will align with the Ministry of Sport, particularly in matters related to sports integrity. This collaboration extends to monitoring result manipulation in sporting events and overseeing transfers involving athletes, clubs, and sports management bodies. Such efforts should increase fan engagement and prevent controversies from tarnishing the country’s sports reputation.

As Brazil takes this proactive step in instituting the Prizes and Betting Secretariat, the country’s gambling landscape will undergo a transformative journey. The dedicated focus on transparency, responsible gambling practices, and effective oversight aims to create a secure and regulated environment for operators, bettors, and other stakeholders. With SPA at the helm, Brazil ventures into a new era of regulated and accountable gambling practices.

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The Brazilian Senate has decided to postpone the vote on the bill that would regulate the gambling sector in the country for Tuesday 12 December after it had originally been scheduled to take place on 6 December.

The delay means that the bill has less and less chances of being fully approved this year. The vote was postponed due to a lack of quorum in the Brazilian Senate, the minimum number of senators needed to vote was not met and it was not possible for the vote to go ahead.

Bill 3,626 was approved by Brazil’s Economic Affairs Commission a couple of weeks ago and everybody expected the Senate to follow suit without too much hassle, but that has not been the case as the vote was first rescheduled to the 29^th of November as more than 100 amendments were added to the original bill.

Moreover, the delay was probably due to the fact that fifteen senators were unavailable for the vote as they were attending the United Nations Climate Summit in the United Arab Emirates. That summit is not over yet, it continues until early next week and the December 12 vote might be affected as well.

The vote on the gambling regulation bill requires a qualified quorum because the proposal does not benefit from consensus in the Senate. This means that if senators that are in favor of the legislative proposal can’t attend the vote, then the approval of the bill might be compromised.

If the December 12 vote is postponed as well, and that possibility seems quite likely, then the bill would probably not come into effect for a few months. That is because from 23 December until 2 February 2024 the Brazilian parliament will be in recess. That delay could have a big impact because if the bill is not approved by the end of 2023, the resources needed for its implementation cannot be included in the 2024 budget by the government.

If the Brazilian Senate would be able to approve the bill on Tuesday, then the matter would advance to the Chamber of Deputies, which would have to discuss the bill and the amendments before voting on it as well. But the Chamber of Deputies would have just over one week to decide on the bill before the recess.

Moving Closer

The Brazilian gaming industry stands firmly behind the bill and is hopeful that it would be approved sooner rather than later. Luiz Felipe Maia, founding partner of Brazilian law firm Maia Yoshiyasu Advogados, declared himself confident that regulation would be in place before too long and said that the country is getting “very close to the approval of the bill.” Maya also said that players would be the ones to benefit the most from the regulation.

The Brazilian government is counting on the bill to supplement the revenues for the state because it would impose a license fee for casino and betting operators which is expected to bring 30 million Brazilian Reais to the state coffers (around 6 million U.S. dollars). Moreover, the state expects to collect around 1.6 billion Brazilian Reais from taxes from the gambling sector.

Neil Montgomery, founder and managing partner of Brazilian law firm Montgomery & Associados, declared himself skeptical regarding the bill’s chances to be approved before the parliamentary recess. If the bill does get approved by the Chamber of Deputies, then it would have to receive one more final approval from the office of President Lula.

Source: “Brazil gambling regulation vote delayed to 12 December“. iGaming Business. December 7, 2023.

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Tim Miller, executive director of the United Kingdom’s Gambling Commission (UKGC) addressed the current state of the industry from the perspective of the British regulator. During yesterday’s Global Gaming Expo (G2E), Miller commented on some of the latest developments in global gaming.

Miller started his speech with a brief discussion of the British market, noting that it continues to exhibit the characteristics of a matured licensed market. He noted that the market closed the fiscal year with a gross gambling yield of £14.1 billion, making it one of the largest in the world.

A survey from the end of March, meanwhile, showed that 44% of adults had taken part in gambling at least once in the previous 4 weeks.

Miller admitted that the pandemic presented unique challenges to the industry but believes that the British industry has managed to emerge stronger than ever. At the same time, the UKGC remains bullish on cracking down on any business practices that endanger customers, further highlighting the market’s maturity.

He noted that the year saw the UKGC conclude the largest enforcement cases in its history, breaking its record two times. FY 2022/23 notably saw the commission conclude 24 enforcement cases with operators who had to pay £60+ million because of their failings.

Miller Says Collaboration Between Regulators Is Crucial

Speaking about certain global trends, Miller noted that British and European operators have been becoming more and more interested in exploring opportunities in North American jurisdictions. The globalization of the industry has prompted the need for discussion between gambling regulators who, according to Miller, have been increasingly focused on regulating the same companies.

The more gambling regulators know of each others rules, standards and markets, the more we are sharing information and best practice, the more we support each other then the more effective we will be.

Tim Miller, executive director, UKGC

According to Miller, it is important to hold operators up to standards and “pose difficult questions” to them if they “act poorly in other markets.”

Miller added that the UKGC is currently establishing strong ties with US regulators and is preparing to sign a number of MOUs with some of them. He is happy that the North American Gaming Regulators Association (NAGRA) and the Gambling Regulators European Forum (GREF) are forming a robust relationship that will benefit the international gaming industry in the long term.

Together, the Industry Can Create a Safe Market

Miller also commented on the importance of cracking down on unlicensed websites. He explained that his team has been using a mix of measures to prevent unlicensed companies from targeting British consumers. The joint work with payment providers, product and games developers and internet search providers, has helped the operator deliver “some dramatic results” and has proven that collaboration is vital.

Only through working together can we ensure we all have safe, fair and crime-free gambling. If as regulators we are able to speak, more often, with one voice then it will enhance our ability to influence those outside the industry – who need to play a more positive and direct role in tackling issues like illegal gambling.

Tim Miller, executive director, UKGC

Miller added that the UK is now consulting white paper proposals that would change the face of the industry in Britain. The consultations saw Britain discuss matters such as age verification, remote games design, direct marketing and cross-selling and affordability checks for online gaming.

Miller also commented on the GamProtect project that would deliver what is known as single customer view. The project will eventually be expanded to cover many operators and consumers.

In the meantime, the UKGC remains bullish on continuing to explore the effect of the industry on public health through regular surveys. The regulator will be busy in the next few years as the local industry continues to evolve.

At the conclusion of his speech, Miller said that gambling is a global industry, which is why operators should work together to truly make a change.

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PAGCOR, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, is undergoing a significant transformation, with plans to shift its focus entirely to regulatory functions by 2025. 

PAGCOR Commits to Employee Security Amid Regulatory Transition

At a recent event where Alejandro H. Tengco was a keynote speaker, he elaborated that the motivation behind the decision to transition to a purely regulatory role lies in PAGCOR’s dedication to equalizing opportunities and securing the future growth and sustainability of all gaming industry participants. This strategic move comes on the heels of PAGCOR’s earlier announcement to launch its online casino platform, Casino.Filipino.com, in the first quarter of 2024.

While the move toward regulation is aimed at benefiting the industry as a whole, it may have implications for some employees within the gaming sector. To address potential job displacement, especially in PAGCOR-operated casinos, the agency is actively formulating plans to mitigate these impacts.

Tengco emphasized that PAGCOR values its employees as its greatest asset and has been conducting town hall meetings across the country to reassure them. He stressed that there is no need to worry, as measures are in place to minimize if not entirely avoid, personnel displacement.

PAGCOR Aims to Achieve Gold Standard in Asian Gaming Through Regulation

In addition to focusing on its regulatory role, PAGCOR is making essential changes to its corporate structure, business processes, and procedures to enhance its responsiveness and competitiveness. These changes include consolidating into a single corporate office to streamline coordination and efficiency.

PAGCOR’s move towards privatization is expected to extend to its gambling operations, including the Casino Filipino chain of casinos that currently operates in eight locations across the Philippines. The agency’s commitment to regulatory oversight remains a priority, with the goal of ensuring the continued integrity and growth of the gaming industry in the region.

PAGCOR also initiated an extensive upgrade program for its self-operated casinos ahead of privatization. PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco unveiled three key initiatives, including modernizing its infrastructure, upgrading Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs), and emphasizing the benefits of privatization to enhance the corporation’s competitiveness and regulatory capabilities.

Tengco expressed confidence in PAGCOR’s potential to become a gold standard in the Asian gaming scene as it shifts its focus to regulation. This transformation coincides with recent efforts to establish new rules for offshore gambling in the Philippines, aimed at addressing illegal offshore activities within the country.

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The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Malta’s gaming regulatory body, has resolutely protected the much-discussed legislation, Bill 55, which Maltese president George Vella signed into law in June this year, after it received criticism that “the amendment is not compatible with European law.”

The legislation isn’t against European law

In its defense arguments, the MGA stated that “Bill 55, also known as Article 56A of Malta’s Gaming Act, does not go against European law, but protects Malta-licensed operators from legal liability resulting from their gambling activities, when the activity is covered under their MGA license.” 

However, the MGA’s statement comes after the Gemeinsamen Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), Germany’s gambling regulatory body, noted that the bill, now law, goes against the Recast Brussels Regulation, a 2013 European law governing jurisdiction, recognition and enforcement of legal judgement between EU member states. To show that this isn’t the case, the MGA emphasized a section in a 2013 European law which states that “a member state may refuse to recognize a legal judgement if does not match with the principles of its legal system.” Furthermore, the Malta Gaming Authority added that “the lawmakers’ intention when writing the law was not to build any new exceptions to the regulation, but it was to enshrine into law the long-standing public policy of Malta in relation to the gaming sector.”

Additionally, to show that it backs up the law, it also said: “The scope of Bill 55 is highly restrictive. The law does not stop every legal action taken against a Malta-licensed gambling operator, highlighting the law sets out specific conditions for it to do so.” However, it emphasized that “an operator could only be protected from a suit when its gambling activities are legal according to the country’s Gaming Act and the lawsuit would need to conflict with or undermine the legality of the Malta gaming framework for Bill 55 to take effect.”

Litigation about the legality of Malta’s gaming laws

Speaking about the legality of its gambling laws, the MGA also claimed that “its gambling laws are covered under the rules governing the European free-movement of services.” In this regard, it said: “The Maltese gaming framework, in turn, is in full conformity with EU law and is based on the freedoms afforded to an entity established within the internal market.”

But, when talking about this particular issue, European governments and regulators highlighted “the 2017 Commission decision to close infringement procedures and complaints in the gambling sector.” According to them, this decision means that “gambling services cannot be considered a service that can be broadcast European-wide under an MGA license.”

The European Commission to scrutinize Bill 55

The aforementioned Bill 55 has already received criticism from few parties for breaching European law. Therefore, in July of this year, the European Commission revealed that it would scrutinize the said bill in order to make sure that there were no breaches of EU law, which is why it requested additional information from the Maltese authorities.

However, as soon as the mentioned check is completed, there is a chance that the case will come before the European Court of Justice, because it has always been the ultimate decision-maker in litigations between domestic and European law.

Source: “MGA defends controversial Bill 55 after criticism”, iGaming Business IGB, August 25, 2023

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A new legislation will seek to establish a regulatory framework for skill video games in Pennsylvania and create a taxing structure that could generate an estimated $300 million in tax revenue annually.

The new initiative comes from Sen. Gene Yaw who circulated a memo to Senate members telling them about his plans to introduce regulation and taxation on skill video games in the Commonwealth and asking other Senators to join him and co-sponsor the upcoming bill.

Pennsylvania’s skill game terminals are manufactured right here in Lycoming County and the finished products exist in fraternal clubs, veterans’ organizations and taverns, as well as other local businesses throughout the Commonwealth.

Sen. Yaw statement

Due to their element of “skill,” skill video games remain outside of the scope of the Pennsylvania Gaming Act which regulates legal gaming machines. The machines also remain untaxed while their number across small businesses such as bars, restaurants, convenience stores, clubs, and others in the state continues to grow.

In the memo, Sen. Yaw told his colleagues that skill video games have the potential to create significant benefits to the state such as additional tax revenue and new jobs if subjected to operating in a regulated environment.

Tackle Illegal Gambling, Support Small Businesses

Moreover, the new bill will serve multiple purposes as it will not only generate extra funds for the state but will help authorities get rid of illegal gambling and provide support to small businesses by giving them access to an additional revenue stream.

“Skill games are a piece of the small business economy in our state, and it’s time we recognize the benefits of this emerging industry and offer regulatory support so that we can ensure it flourishes – safely and responsibly,” Sen. Yaw added.

He added that an industry such as video game manufacturing that has created hundreds of manufacturing jobs in and around the district he represents. Yaw added that one of the largest skill game manufacturers is located there, has been sourcing nearly all of the components in the US, and is currently redirecting new projects from China to Williamsport.

Under his proposal, all skill video games in Pennsylvania will be connected to a terminal collection and control system monitored by the Commonwealth so that every transaction is registered and due taxes are accrued and timely paid.

According to experts, if passed the proposal is expected to generate approximately $300 million in annual tax revenue for the state. Sen. Yaw additionally believes that it will also result in creating new family-sustaining jobs.

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