Thailand’s National Assembly set to deliberate bill to legalize casino business

The Nation newspaper, quoting deputy finance minister Julapun Amornvivat, said that the lower house of the Thai National Assembly would discuss legalizing the casino business on March 28.

The national Cabinet will study the legislation further if it is approved by the lower house. The proposal has been drafted and given to the House, Mr. Julapun said. The next course of action will be decided by the House. I will send it to the Cabinet for review if the House gives its approval, and the Cabinet will make the final decision.”

The story did not say how the Senate, which is the upper house, would consider the law.

The website states that a special House committee completed its investigation on the establishment of casinos earlier this month. This topic has been discussed in the Assembly for a number of years. The committee’s recommendations were compiled into a ten-chapter, 68-article bill.

According to a different article in The Nation that quoted the deputy minister, restricting access was recommended if casino licensing was to continue by the Royal Thai Police, which is the nation’s primary law enforcement agency. This is to prevent social problems like compulsive gambling and money laundering.

The police recommended requiring Thai casino guests to provide details about their nationality, age, and financial status. Additionally, they recommended that casino buildings be located far from residential areas and educational facilities.

Original story by: GGRAsia