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The Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's primary opposition to the African National Congress (ANC), has taken a significant step by introducing a new bill aimed at regulating remote gambling within the country. Known as the Remote Gambling Bill (B11-2024), this legislative proposal seeks to address the current lack of regulation surrounding online gambling, despite a bill addressing the issue being pending since 2008.
The DA's bill comes after years of inaction regarding the National Gambling Amendment Act, which was intended to regulate online gambling but has yet to be signed into law. With the Remote Gambling Bill, the DA aims to close what they perceive as a crucial "legal gap" within the gambling industry, providing much-needed oversight and protection for consumers.
According to the DA, the drafting of the bill involved a meticulous two-year process to ensure it strikes the right balance between regulation, protection, and administrative feasibility. The party argues that the absence of regulation not only fosters criminal activity but also results in significant revenue loss and job displacement within the gambling sector.
Detailing the provisions of the bill, it introduces a comprehensive licensing system, categorizing licenses into three types: remote gambling operator, manufacturer/supplier/maintenance provider, and employment licenses. The application process for these licenses will be overseen by provincial licensing authorities, with final approval resting with the National Gambling Board.
Crucially, the bill includes mechanisms for the suspension or withdrawal of licenses in cases of non-compliance, as well as provisions for license surrender or transfer. While specific details such as license costs and tax rates are not outlined in the bill, it includes stringent regulations aimed at safeguarding consumers and mitigating potential harm.
For instance, the bill mandates that remote gambling be restricted to individuals aged 18 and above, prohibits operators from extending credit to players, and introduces a self-exclusion scheme for those seeking to opt out of gambling activities. Additionally, operators are required to offer responsible gambling tools such as deposit limits, while advertising must adhere to strict guidelines to prevent misleading practices.
The fate of the Remote Gambling Bill is likely to be influenced by the outcome of the upcoming national and provincial elections scheduled for 29 May. Polling suggests a potential decline in ANC support below the majority threshold, which could improve the bill's chances of passing through parliament.
Caroline Kongwa, chief strategic adviser for the National Gambling Board, has previously emphasized the growth opportunities present in South Africa's emerging gambling market. She highlighted the importance of technology and responsible gambling measures in managing the industry's impact on society.
Overall, the introduction of the Remote Gambling Bill represents a significant milestone in South Africa's regulatory landscape, with the potential to reshape the gambling industry and enhance consumer protection in the digital age.
By fLEXI tEAM