In Germany, state power is looking to intervene with regard to land-based gambling establishments. According to recent plans revealed by a representative of the Ministry of the Interior for Saxony, 171 of the 449 gambling halls in Saxony are to close.
The halls earmarked for closing do not comply with the regulations of the current state gambling law and contracts, which prescribe a minimum distance of 250 meters between gambling halls and schools.
In addition, not as many slot machines as previously may be installed within premises. According to German regulations, a casino hall may have a maximum of twelve devices. A large area with, for example, several entrances, a bar and 48 appliances corresponds to four halls in one building, which would require so-called multiple concessions.
However, with the new regulations, there will be no more multiple licenses. One of the aims is an “effective fight against addiction”. The legislature wants to counteract unauthorized gambling, but there is resistance amongst operators.
