At least nine cities to pursue full bans as emergency decree gives decisive veto powers to mayors and local councils
Romania’s government has overhauled gambling regulations through an emergency decree allowing municipalities to restrict or ban betting shops and slot machine halls in the biggest tightening of the industry the country has seen.
Licensed operators must now obtain not only a national permit but also local authorisation to open a gambling venue, giving mayors and local councils a decisive veto power. Officials say more than 200 localities could pursue full bans.
There has been a rapid expansion of Romania’s gambling industry, with tens of thousands of slot machines and betting outlets open nationwide, especially in the capital, Bucharest.
Until now, gambling halls were authorised centrally without city approval, leaving communities powerless even as venues proliferated near schools and residential areas.
