Revised Dutch remote gaming bill notified to brussels ahead of parliamentary process

By Frank Tolboom and Dr. Alan Littler, Kalff Katz & Franssen Attorneys-at-law

Sooner than expected the Dutch government notified, on 5 March 2014, a revised version of the remote gaming bill (“notified bill”) to the European Commission (“EC”). The standstill period ends on 6 June 2014, although given the legislative process ahead the bill will not be adopted before this date anyway. It is expected that the bill will enter into the political arena in The Hague just before the  summer and plenary debates will follow later this year or even in the beginning of next year.

At the time of writing the EC has not made an English translation available of the 170+ page bill and the accompanying explanatory memorandum. Therefore, this article will set out some of the key features and changes as incorporated by the Ministry of Security and Justice (“Ministry”) following the consultation period which resulted in almost 90 submissions from various stakeholders. On a final note, we will have a look into our crystal ball and discuss next steps, including an estimated legislative timetable until licensing commences.

Read the whole article in European Gaming Lawyer here.