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Russia approves gambling regulations

RUSSIA – As reported by the Moscow Times: "State Duma deputies unanimously gave tentative approval Wednesday to a bill that would tighten the screws on gamblers and ultimately ban gambling except in four special zones from 2009.

"But the legislation -- criticized for clumsy wording and prohibiting activities such as betting on friendly card games in private homes -- is widely expected to undergo drastic changes before it passes a second reading, probably later this year.

"…The bill, submitted by President Vladimir Putin last month, sailed through a first reading Wednesday by a vote of 440-0 and one abstention.

"Under the bill, small slot-machine halls and casinos will be closed next July, when a minimum gambling age of 18 and other restrictions come into effect.

"Duma deputies stressed the need for national gambling regulations, but said the legislation must clarify how the four gambling zones would be set up.

"…Federal authorities would grant five-year licenses for operation inside the zones.

"The exact locations of the four zones have not been chosen, but Duma Speaker Boris Gryzlov has said two zones will be in European Russia, one in Siberia and one in the Far East…"

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