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The European Parliament is about to vote on two reports on the topic of online casinos.  Votes will take place next month in March.  A small group of Members of the European Parliament are fighting against the ability for members states of the European Union to regulate online casinos.  They would prefer internal market rules on freedom of service to prevail.  Essentially, they are trying to put an end to protectionist actions of countries like Finland that hold a monopoly over the Internet gambling in their territory. 

With a demanding vote of 32 to 10, the European Parliament’s internal market and consumer protection committee adopted and report by Danish Member of the European Parliament Christel Schaldemose.  The report pertained to the integrity of online gambling.  Focusing on fraud, addiction, money laundering, game fixing, and exposure to children, the report is not binding.  No legislative actions are expected to be taken as a result of the report in the near future.

There is a consensus among many members of the European parliament that an age limit should be placed on online casino wagering.  They also support the idea of banning the use bonus and credit scheme.  All these measures would be put in place as a consumer protection measure. 

There is some talk of introducing a maximum monthly spending budget.  This would limit the amount of money an individual is allowed to wager at online casinos in a single month.  Another solution to safeguard against dangerous gambling spending is to convince online casino operators to distribute prepaid wagering cards.

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