The Verkhovna Rada has approved Bill 9256-d in its second reading, introducing significant restrictions on the gambling business. The bill was supported by 239 Members of Parliament.
One of its authors, MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak, outlined the major changes it will bring to the industry:
- Elimination of KRAIL. By April 1, 2025, a new regulatory body will be established, and a ministry responsible for shaping gambling policy will be designated.
- Blocking illegal platforms. Mechanisms to restrict access to unauthorized gambling websites and mobile applications will be implemented.
- Advertising restrictions. Gambling advertisements will only be allowed during nighttime on television and radio, as well as in media and online platforms with an audience aged 21 and older.
- Limits on promotional activities. Reimbursing gambling expenses, offering free betting bonuses, and contacting individuals through calls or messages without consent will be prohibited.
- Content restrictions in advertisements. Promotions cannot feature military personnel, volunteers, public figures, or war-related themes.
- Strict licensing requirements. Licenses will not be issued to companies with tax debts or unpaid license fees.
- Banking-only transactions. All gambling payments must be processed through bank accounts, and alternative payment methods are banned.
- Sponsorship limitations. Sponsorships will be permitted exclusively in sports.
- Tougher rules for lotteries. Stricter requirements are introduced for lotteries, including clean reputations, absence of tax debts, no ties to the aggressor state, and exclusive use of banking transactions.
- Licenses for foreign entities. Foreign companies with relevant experience will be eligible for licenses to operate state lotteries.
- Mandatory use of cash registers. The use of point-of-sale terminals (POS) is now mandatory for gambling businesses.
- Ban on connections to the aggressor state. Companies with ties to the aggressor state or those using their brands will be denied licenses.
- Spending limits and breaks. Gambling expenditures will be capped, and mandatory breaks will be introduced.
- “Control purchases” during inspections. Inspections will include undercover checks with video recording.
- Ban on credit-based bets. Accepting bets on credit or with deferred payment is strictly prohibited.
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The bill has sparked widespread public discussion, particularly due to a petition by soldier Pavlo Petrychenko. He highlighted the issue of gambling addiction among military personnel and proposed banning soldiers from participating in gambling activities, as well as prohibiting military units and charitable foundations from accepting donations from gambling companies. The petition quickly gathered over 25,000 signatures.
Read also: Mexico Bans Slot Machines – President Takes a Stand Against Illegal Activities.
Danylo Hetmantsev, the head of the parliamentary tax committee, blamed KRAIL for the crisis in the gambling market. Following this, the committee approved Bill 9256-d, which includes provisions for dissolving the commission and imposing strict restrictions on the gambling industry. The NSDC also adopted measures to regulate online casinos, and the government temporarily banned gambling advertising until the law comes into effect. However, representatives of the gambling industry view these changes negatively, considering them a lobbying effort to favor the lottery sector. Stay on top of the gaming world – explore hot topics in gambling. Find interesting news on our site.
