A newly proposed bill in Bulgaria aims to significantly amend the country’s gambling laws, particularly focusing on advertising restrictions.
The legislation, introduced last week by the political alliances GERB-UDF and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, seeks to prohibit gambling ads across various media platforms including online, television, radio, and print.
Additionally, advertisements would not be allowed on buildings.
The proposed changes received strong parliamentary support, with 198 MPs voting in favor during the second reading session on April 30.
The bill will become effective three days following its official publication in the State Gazette, although the exact date of promulgation remains unspecified.
Under the new regulations, gambling adverts will only be permitted on billboards situated more than 100 meters from educational institutions and on premises of gaming halls and casinos.
Notably, the ban excludes television broadcasts related to Bulgarian sports tote draws.
All advertisements that do meet these criteria must include messages promoting responsible gambling, which should occupy at least 10% of the advert’s space.
Non-compliance with these advertising restrictions could lead to hefty fines up to BGN50,000 for operators.
Persistent violators risk having their gambling licenses revoked in Bulgaria.
The Council for Electronic Media is tasked with monitoring adherence to these rules and will report any infractions to the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency (NRA).
The bill also introduces several other amendments aimed at tightening gambling regulations. This includes a requirement for companies to increase their capital from BGN500,000 to BGN750,000 to qualify for slot machine licenses.
Additionally, slot machines and casino gambling will now be restricted to localities with populations over 10,000, except in national resorts and border areas.
Another notable change is the introduction of a “socially responsible fee” of BGN100,000 for online betting operators, half of which will be allocated to the ministry of health for programs supporting gambling addiction recovery.
Restrictions also extend to the national self-exclusion gambling register, preventing individuals who receive social assistance from removing themselves from the list.
These legislative efforts reflect Bulgaria’s evolving approach to gambling regulation.
In 2020, the NRA took over gambling oversight after the dissolution of the State Gambling Commission, demonstrating the country’s commitment to reinforcing its anti-money laundering protocols and ensuring responsible gambling practices.