The State Duma specified the regions to place gaming zones in
The State Duma adopted the legislation on making four gaming zones in Russia in the second reading.
The legislation was adopted unanimously – 425 deputies voted for it, 226 votes being necessary.
Under the document, on the territory of Russia only four gaming zones may be created. The amendments for the second reading specify the place of these zones – Kaliningrad, Altay and Primorie regions and the borderline territory between Rostov and Krasnodar regions.
It is forbidden to arrange gaming zones within residential areas, towns and cities. Borders of the zones will be determined by the Government according to proposals of the relevant RF constituent territories.
The activities of gambling facilities outside gaming areas will have been completely ceased by July 1st, 2009. Till June 30th, 2009, gambling facilities having licenses and meeting the regulations of the new law may continue their operations.
From July 1st, 2007 all gambling facilities which do not meet the requirements of the new law must have been closed. In the deputies’ opinion, it will be relevant for all small and average-size gaming institutions.
The authorities of the RF constituent territories are entitled to make independent decisions on banning gaming locations within their areas. It is still banned to arrange and organize gambling via information and telecommunication networks, including the Internet and other communication means. Bookmakers’ offices are allowed to run their operations outside gaming zones.
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