New Legislative Proposals Target Gambling Industry in Romania
Romanian Liberal Party (PNL) member of Parliament Raluca Turcan has introduced two legislative proposals aimed at enhancing the regulation of the gambling industry. These initiatives seek to address concerns about the impact of gambling on young people, particularly by raising the minimum legal age for gambling and implementing stricter advertising rules.
Raising the Legal Age for Gambling
The first proposal suggests increasing the minimum legal age for gambling from 18 to 21 years. According to Bursa.ro, this measure aims to provide better protection for young people’s emotional and financial well-being. Turcan emphasized that the 18–21 age group is one of the most vulnerable stages of life, as individuals begin their studies or careers while managing their first incomes and responsibilities.
“The gambling industry, based on persuasive mechanisms and refined psychological techniques, targets exactly this vulnerable segment,” she stated. By raising the age threshold, Turcan believes that young adults will have more time to emotionally and financially mature before being exposed to gambling activities.
She also cited examples from Portugal, Greece, and the Republic of Moldova, where similar measures reportedly led to a significant decline in early gambling addiction and indebtedness among young people.
Stricter Advertising Regulations
Turcan’s second bill focuses on stricter advertising regulations for gambling operators, especially online platforms. The proposal would ban the broadcasting of gambling-related advertisements on digital platforms between 06:00 and 24:00, a period when minors and young adults are most active online.
Additionally, the legislation would prohibit the use of influencers, athletes, and public figures in promotional campaigns for gambling companies. Turcan explained that this restriction reflects the shift in how young audiences consume content, noting that “young people are not attracted to traditional ads, but to the models they follow and imitate online.”
Potential Impact on Romanian Gambling Regulations
If adopted, these bills would represent a major tightening of Romania’s gambling regulations. They would align the country with several European states that have recently strengthened restrictions to reduce exposure among young people.
Conclusion
These new legislative proposals highlight the growing concern over the influence of the gambling industry on young people. By implementing stricter age requirements and advertising regulations, Turcan aims to create a safer environment for young adults and reduce the risks associated with gambling. The success of similar measures in other European countries provides a strong foundation for these proposed changes in Romania.