Japan submits problem gambling bill

The ruling coalition submitted a bill to the Lower House along with opposition party Nippon Ishin no Kai to tackle problem gambling.

Japan.- The casino industry could be coming to Japan in the near future but the country needs to regulate the segment first through the Integrated Resorts (IR) Implementation Bill, which might be passed before the Diet session ends on June 20th. However, another gambling-related bill has been submitted to the Lower House on Wednesday by both the ruling LDP-led coalition and the nominal opposition party Nippon Ishin no Kai to tackle problem gambling.

The proposed legislation aims to help problem gamblers at future integrated casino resorts but will also target current addicts that play pachinko, boat or horse race gambling.

It would set up a commission under the chief Cabinet secretary to make decisions and take measures about problem gamblers. Said actions would be related to the establishment of medical facilities and offering social welfare support.

The IR bill would regulate the casino industry and set taxation rates, licences’ lengths and the process for approving resorts, which is why it is needed before any further action surrounding the industry takes place. In addition, whether IRs should be placed in main urban locations (most likely to happen) or in rural regions.