The lawmakers assert that online slots are driving problem gambling numbers higher
A slim majority of MPs in the Dutch House of Representatives has voted to ban online slots completely, as well as prohibit gambling advertising. Other proposals include compulsory financial risk checks and the requirement that players provide identification for gambling.
Socialist Party MP Michiel van Nispen presented the motions to the House. They would ban online slots under the premise that the activity is particularly risky, with lawmakers casting 79 votes in favor.
The Netherlands introduced a ban on untargeted gambling advertising last July, and the new law would cover all online advertising. A similar motion failed in February, but van Nispen’s new proposal achieved a slim majority of 77 votes.
The affirmative votes don’t mean that the ban will be implemented. The proposals must first be reviewed by the minister for legal protection, Franc Weerwind, who will determine whether they should be endorsed. Weerwind has aimed for a balance between maintaining an inviting regulated market for players and operators and strict regulation.
The online slots ban could also push many players into the unregulated market, which could have negative consequences for problem gamblers and state tax revenue. The Netherlands Online Gambling Association (NOGA) says that Dutch MPs’ vote for an online slots ban is “thoughtless and irresponsible.”
NOGA cautioned that banning online slots and advertising would help unlicensed providers. “There are already signs that gamblers are disappearing into the illegal circuit due to the previously imposed advertising ban on radio, TV, newspapers, and in the open air.”
2023 online gross gaming revenue (GGR) in the Netherlands was up 28% to €1.39 billion (US $1.48 billion). However, revenue in the second half increased by just 1 % compared to the first six months. Over 1.1 million gambling accounts are active, up 13 % from 970,000.
