European gaming companies said yesterday in Kiel, Germany, that they will apply for licences and pay gaming taxes in Schleswig-Holstein, as soon as Schleswig-Holstein's parliament enact its planned gaming law.
After Schleswig-Holstein did not support the Minister Presidents’ decision regarding the amended Gaming Treaty, there will be a hearing in the Schleswig-Holstein Parliament today regarding the planned gaming law that has already been notified to the European Commission.
On one hand, the bill fulfills the European Court of Justice guidelines, thereby creating justice and fairness; on the other hand, it gives reputable gaming companies the opportunity to offer German customers secure, attractive and market-driven products in accordance with conditions that conform to European Union law. The existing grey market can thus be regulated, as well as securing tax revenues for sports and social projects.
Schleswig-Holstein’s bill is also ground breaking with regard to European aspects, since positive experiences from other EU countries are meaningfully taken into consideration. Schleswig-Holstein has opted for a regulatory approach that secures the state’s lottery monopoly, but which would remain receptive to market realities in other gaming segments and simultaneously ensure a high level of consumer protection.
Jörg Wacker of bwin.party commented: "Schleswig-Holstein has blazed a new trail with its bill. This bill complies with EU law, corresponds to market reality and the internet age. The implementation of the key issues proposed by the Minister Presidents last week would be as doomed to failure as the expiring monopoly model in Germany. Over 16 per cent turnover tax on sports betting would not enable a competitive product to be placed in the market. Excluding poker and casino offers would enable the black market, as well as unregulated sports betting, to continue to exist in this segment. Thus, the federal state’s objective of channelling, ensuring player protection and fighting manipulation would miss the mark."
