Polish Gambling Law Rejected by the European Commission

Poland was recently praised for proceeding with the licensing, legalization and regulation of online casinos. However the current draft law drawn up in this regard has raised negative comments from the European Commission to which it was submitted for approval on April 14, 2010. It was felt that certain provisions of the draft law conflicted with European law.

Fabio Pirotta, Commission spokesman stated: “The Commission has studied information sent by Polish authorities and the Gambling Bill project. After a deep analysis it has decided to ask for more information in order to investigate whether the bill is compliant with EU law.”

Many of the provisions of the draft law that involve online gambling and betting laws have attracted criticism from the Malta and UK governments.

The European Gambling and Betting Association studied the European Commission’s comments and stated that although the initiative was applaudable there were many clauses that could prejudice companies licensed in other EU nations in pursuing a Polish license. The Polish government has been urged to revise the draft to bring it into compliance with the European Treaty.

Poland is required to respond to the European Commission’s objections and revise the draft laws before August 16, 2010. Should Poland go ahead with these laws without the required changes after August 16 then infringement proceedings may be initiated by the Commission.