Germany: Rheinland-Pfalz deprives 342 gambling halls of concession

February 2, 2018 7:07 PM
  • CDC Gaming Reports
February 2, 2018 7:07 PM
  • CDC Gaming Reports

The new Rheinland-Pfalz gambling law puts the protection of children and adolescents in the foreground. The operators, however, are fighting back.

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To date, 24 operators have filed an objection against the decisions at the Trier city administration, which prohibit their continued operation from 2021 onwards.

According to the new law, 342 gambling halls in Rhineland-Palatinate must close by the 1st of July 2021. They’re simply too close to youth facilities, and, under the new Gambling Act, such sites must be reassigned to protect children and adolescents.

In Bremen, for example, gambling halls within a radius of 250 metres from youth facilities, sports facilities, youth clubs and schools must close.

In Rhineland-Palatinate, a radius of 500 metres, and a transitional period of several years, apply.

Most notably, as of July 2021, almost the entire city of Trier will be a restricted area: 32 out of the city’s 34 gambling halls with gaming machines will longer be allowed to operate. Two locations – each of which must have a maximum of twelve slot machines – will remain.

The 500 metre limit must also be maintained between any two gambling halls, and this applies to all municipalities.

Full article: Volksfreund (German)