Ukrainian Parliament passes law on gambling despite the Churches' opposition
According to an Ukrinform correspondent, a total of 248 MPs voted for the adoption of the respective bill, No. 2285-d, at second reading and in its entirety at a parliament meeting on Tuesday, July 14.
The law criminalizes the organization of unlicensed gambling and allows slot machine halls to be located in three-, four- and five-star hotels only.
The law also provides for the regulation of "classic" lotteries. The document introduces age restrictions and allows people over 21 to gamble.
In addition, restrictions are imposed on the advertising of gambling establishments. In particular, it is prohibited to advertise gambling as a way of easy enrichment.
According to the document, residents of the aggressor state will be banned from having a gambling business in Ukraine.
The Verkhovna Rada adopted a government bill on the legalization of gambling at first reading on January 16, 2020.
Recently, Pentecostal Christians asked the Ukrainian authorities not to pass bills affecting gender and gambling. Last year, the Spiritual Council of Kamianets-Podilskyi opposed the legalization of gambling, soft drugs, prostitution, etc. The UGCC opposed the legalization of gambling. The Council of Bishops of Lviv also called on the state authorities to fight the gambling business. RCC has repeatedly spoken out against gambling.
