Speaker Manzoor Nadir confirmed a committee would be formed to examine the legislation.
The proposed legislation seeks to overhaul the regulatory framework governing Guyana’s gaming industry by establishing a Guyana Gaming Authority with responsibility for licensing, supervision, taxation and enforcement across the sector.
Its provisions cover casinos, gaming lounges, betting shops, betting shop agents, remote gaming platforms and simulcast horse racing.
The bill incorporates measures to strengthen the sector’s compliance with anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism requirements, alongside administrative penalties for regulatory breaches.
The bill also fulfils a commitment by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo in October last year, when he announced the government would introduce sweeping reforms to the sector.
Religious organisations have also played a significant role in advocating for stronger intervention, drawing attention to gambling addiction and its consequences for family stability, relationships and community well-being.
The referral to a special select committee will allow for closer examination of the proposed regulatory measures before the bill returns to the National Assembly for further consideration. (Department of Public Information)
