A first package of measures aimed at combating illegal gambling in bars was presented to the Parliamentary Justice Committee on Thursday. The proposals are an initial step ahead of a broader planned reform of Luxembourg’s gambling laws.
The draft legislation seeks to balance the availability of legal games in bars with enhanced protections for minors, while strengthening enforcement tools for authorities. A key problem identified is the proliferation of illegal terminals, often disguised as internet kiosks, which in reality offer only gambling.
To address this, the bill includes provisions to streamline the seizure of such machines. Bar owners who tolerate illegal gambling on their premises will also face stricter penalties.
Justifying the need for these changes, Justice Minister Elisabeth Margue explained to MPs that authorities required clearer legal tools to ensure only games authorised by the National Lottery are available. “That is why we have had to adapt the definition and give ourselves the means to intervene”, Margue stated.
The bill proposes a three-month transitional period for bar owners to comply. Certain exceptions are included, such as for raffles held at local village festivals, even where minors are present.
Minister Margue further indicated that a second phase of reform is planned, which will specifically target the regulation of online gambling.
