Senate Proposes New Regulations of Licensing Touching on Betting Premises & Pool Tables
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has introduced amendments to the Gambling Control Bill 2023, suggesting a significant shift in gambling regulation by proposing that licensing authority be handed over to county governments.
The proposed amendments would grant county administrations the power to create and enforce local laws governing various forms of gambling, such as betting, prize competitions, amusement machines, betting premises, pool tables, and county lotteries.
Another senator, Edwin Sifuna, is advocating for changes related to the start and end of betting transactions, proposing that an online gambling transaction should officially commence when funds are deposited into a player’s gaming account and end when funds are withdrawn.
The Kenya Gambling Control Bill 2023, currently under parliamentary review, aims to comprehensively reform the country’s gambling framework, notably by establishing the Gambling Regulatory Authority to replace the current Betting, Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).
At its essence, the bill seeks to improve oversight of various gambling activities, including sports betting, casinos, lotteries, and media-based gambling, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding consumers.
A significant concern addressed by the bill is the high level of youth involvement in gambling, with an alarming 83.9 percent of Kenyan youth reported to have engaged in gambling or betting, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory action.
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To mitigate harm, the proposed legislation introduces strict measures to combat illegal gambling practices and prevent underage gambling, as well as implementing a minimum betting threshold to discourage excessive gambling.
Acknowledging the economic importance of the gambling industry, the bill proposes ownership requirements mandating that at least 30 percent of shares in gambling entities be held by Kenyan citizens. Additionally, it mandates that these companies conduct their banking activities exclusively with Kenyan financial institutions to promote domestic economic growth.
In terms of fiscal policy, the bill suggests a significant increase in taxation, raising the tax on gambling proceeds to 15 percent from the previous controversial rate of 7.5 percent, with the aim of boosting government revenue and national economic development.
The bill also emphasizes restrictions on gambling advertising, especially on radio and television, during specific time frames to protect vulnerable demographics from excessive exposure.
Senate Proposes New Regulations of Licensing Touching on Betting Premises & Pool Tables