REGULATORY · MARKET STRUCTURE · EUROPE
Romania lets municipalities ban gambling venues
Change
An emergency decree requires gambling operators to hold national permits and local authorisations, empowering mayors and local councils to restrict or ban betting shops and slot machine halls.
Why it matters
The decree requires licensed gambling operators to obtain a national permit and a local authorisation before opening a venue. Mayors and local councils have authority to restrict or ban betting shops and slot machine halls. Tens of thousands of slot machines and betting outlets operate nationwide, with a concentration in Bucharest. Gambling halls were previously authorised centrally without city approval. More than 200 localities are indicated as possible locations for full bans.
Implications
- • Licensed gambling operators are required to secure both national permits and municipal authorisations prior to opening venues.
- • Local authorities can veto new venue openings and impose local restrictions or bans on existing operations.
- • Municipal bans can be applied to venues located near schools and residential areas.
Who is affected
- • Licensed gambling operators
- • Mayors and local councils
- • Municipal licensing authorities
- • Residents near schools and residential areas
Source
Topics
Law & Public Safety Regulatory Actions Health & Medicine Public Health