Russian Lawmakers Plan to Force Bookmakers to Pay ‘Gambling Addiction Rehabilitation Tax’

Russian Lawmakers Plan to Force Bookmakers to Pay ‘Gambling Addiction Rehabilitation Tax’

Summary

Russian lawmakers are pushing for a new tax on legal bookmakers to fund treatment for gambling addiction. The proposed tax aims to raise funds for anti-gambling advertisements and treatment methods, as the number of gambling addicts in Russia rises. The legislation is expected to be debated before the end of 2025.

Source: CasinoBeats

Key Points

  • The proposed tax would be a percentage of income from bookmakers to fund gambling addiction rehabilitation.
  • The Unified Gambling Regulator (ERAI) would be responsible for collecting the tax.
  • Funds raised will finance anti-gambling campaigns and research into treatment methods.
  • Stricter penalties are proposed for illegal online gambling operators, with fines increasing significantly.
  • About 3 million people in Russia reportedly suffer from gambling addiction, highlighting the urgency of this legislative proposal.

Why should I read this?

This legislation could reshape the landscape of gambling in Russia by addressing addiction head-on. If you’re interested in how governments are tackling gambling issues while balancing the industry’s growth, this article covers a significant step in public health and regulation that could impact many lives.