The Romanian government has just changed the gambling laws in the country using an emergency ordinance. One of its provisions, among others, allows the authorities of the localities to limit or even ban the existence of gambling halls and betting shops in their areas. The municipalities are, for the very first time, given a strong voice in the question of where the physical gambling establishments may be located.
The new rules provide that besides getting the national license, the operators will also need to get a permit from the local authorities to be able to open a gambling venue. It is the mayors and town councils who will decide not only whether or not gambling halls should be allowed in their areas but also which would be the most suitable places for them.
Previously, licenses for gambling halls and betting offices were issued only at the national level, so municipalities had very limited powers. It was very rare for local authorities to have the opportunity to intervene, for instance, if a gambling hall was set up near a school.
Municipal Decisions Shape the Gambling Landscape
Gaining new powers, to a good extent, can decide the gambling sector’s fate. The Guardian suggests that a few hundred local communities may be in the process of deciding to ban gambling venues entirely.
Slatina Mayor Mario De Mezzo has already said clearly that his plan is to remove all gambling facilities once the active permits expire, arguing that a complete ban would be the simplest way to significantly decrease gambling in the city.
Bucharest is also mulling over limiting ways to gamble. Mayor Ciprian Cucu disclosed that the city council plans to involve citizens in the decision-making process. One of the ideas being discussed is that gambling venues should only be located in specific areas of the capital.
Stricter Rules and Legislative Changes
Stricter rules are the result of the long run expansion of gambling in Romania. Slot machines and betting shops have been spread around cities, especially in the capital, Bucharest. This sector generates a significant portion of the government’s income and is expected to contribute around 1 billion in taxes by 2025.
The emergency order is another move towards a more controlled gambling environment. Previously, in April 2024, the parliament passed a law restricting slot machines to towns with a population of at least 15,000 thus leaving many small towns and rural areas without slots.
Moreover, other legislative changes are underway. Along with raising the minimum age for gambling hall patrons to 21, these plans also aim at enforcing tougher advertising rules. In fact, the Romanian media watchdog has banned celebrities and social media stars from gambling ads.
