5 Years Without Early Reopening: Strict Restrictions for Online Casinos

The National Assembly has discussed a legislative initiative proposed by MP Haik Sargsyan of the 'Civil Contract' faction, aiming to make changes to the Law on Regulation of Gaming Activities.

The parliament reviewed the legislative proposal authored by MP Sargsyan, which pertains to the regulation of the gaming sector. According to the author, online casinos have become a serious problem for society.

The proposal outlines a mandatory requirement for all online casinos to implement a visible self-exclusion button on their applications and websites. Once activated, an individual’s participation in games will be prohibited for a period of five years, without the possibility of early reopening.

Upon the completion of this five-year period, the exclusion will automatically extend for the same duration unless the citizen submits a request to lift it five days before the expiration of the term.

Additionally, the proposal seeks to prohibit participation in games for all types of beneficiaries. The rationale provided for this ban is that the involvement of individuals receiving benefits in games contradicts the aims of social assistance and further increases their vulnerability.

The restriction will also extend to citizens whose only source of income is their pension. According to the reporter's clarification, the funds of individuals living solely on pensions should be directed toward essential needs such as food, medicine, and utility payments.