Russian Lawmakers Plan to Force Bookmakers to Pay ‘Gambling Addiction Rehabilitation Tax’
Summary
Russian lawmakers are proposing a new tax for legal bookmakers aimed at funding rehabilitation programmes for gambling addiction. Chairman Artem Metelev announced that the bill would be debated before the end of 2025, requiring bookmakers to contribute a percentage of their income to combat gambling addiction.
Key Points
- The proposed tax would support anti-gambling ads on social media and develop new treatment methods.
- Increased fines for illegal online gambling promotion could rise from 2,000 rubles ($25) to as much as 7 million rubles ($88,049).
- Approximately 3 million Russians are believed to have gambling addiction-related issues, prompting these legislative changes.
- Lawmakers are aiming to build a coordinated health system response involving both the Ministry of Health and regulated bookmakers.
Why should I read this?
If you’re curious about how governments are attempting to manage gambling addiction, this article is a must-read. With the growing issue of gambling-related harm, especially among youth, this proposed legislation could set a significant precedent for how nations address such challenges in the future. Stay informed!