Bermuda may soon legalise land-based casinos

Last March, we reported in an article in our blog that Bermuda is interested in the online gambling market.
Now we can also confirm that the archipelago is now interested in opening land-based casinos.
On Friday, July 18, the government completed the first draft for a new bill that would allow hotels to operate a room dedicated to casino games.
The text should be submitted to the national parliament before the end of the year.
You can read more about this new law later in this article.

Some details

In a recent speech that was held before the National Assembly of Bermuda, the Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell described the bill as a major text.
The bill would ensure the best possible regulation and effective administration to oversee the casino industry in the archipelago.
In contrast to what he had originally stated, Crockwell also said that there would be no referendum, but he added that recent polls had shown that 76% of the people supported the new measure.
All residents will be allowed to participate in gambling activities if they meet the requirements that are going to be established by the regulator.
The requirements are that minors and anyone receiving financial benefits will be denied entry to the brick and mortar casinos.
The Tourism minister also stated that the implementation of this legislation on casino gambling is an important decision that will be closely watched by other countries and potential investors.
He also noted that it was vital for the reputation of Bermuda to implement this legislation as soon as the government has agreed to it.

Finalisation in progress

Inspired by the regulatory framework of the casinos in Singapore, and developed with the consulting company Spectrum Gaming Group that is based in the United States, the new legislation will not be presented at the next parliamentary session.
Instead, the legislative drafting committee will continue to finalise the text of legislation and submit it by the end of the year.

Strengthening the tourism industry and attracting foreign investors

The bill is relevant for holiday resorts who wish to open a dedicated gaming room in their establishments.
If the bill is passed, it will be the first time that casinos are legal in this British territory in the North Atlantic ocean.
The government of Bermuda hopes to strengthen the tourism industry and to attract many foreign investors to the archipelago.
However, before this will be possible, a special gaming commission and a council for responsible gaming will have to be established.