Russian Lawmakers Plan to Force Bookmakers to Pay ‘Gambling Addiction Rehabilitation Tax’
Summary
Russian lawmakers are proposing a new tax on legal bookmakers to fund treatment for gambling addiction. The bill, led by Artem Metelev, Chairman of the State Duma’s Youth Policy Committee, aims to collect a percentage of bookmakers’ income to aid prevention efforts. The Unified Gambling Regulator (ERAI) is expected to oversee the tax collection.
If approved, the tax will finance anti-gambling advertisements and develop new treatment methods. Stricter penalties for illegal gambling promotion are also part of the plan, significantly increasing fines for violators.
Key Points
- Proposed tax to help fund gambling addiction treatment in Russia.
- Lawmakers claim 3 million Russians currently suffer from gambling addiction.
- Funding intended for prevention campaigns and training healthcare professionals.
- Increased fines for illegal gambling promotion, from 2,000 to 7 million rubles.
- Repeat offenders could face criminal liability under new penalties.
Why should I read this?
This article sheds light on a significant move by Russian lawmakers aimed at addressing gambling addiction — an issue that increasingly affects millions. With the potential for substantial changes to gambling laws and the support systems for addicts, staying informed on these developments is crucial if you’re involved in the gambling industry or have a stake in social responsibility initiatives.