Russian President Takes Strong Stand On Gambling

Russia did not want gambling just anywhere in the country, so in 2006 they added a law that would move gambling to four specific zones. groups with gambling interests have been stalling the process for two years.

Now, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev believes the stalling has gone on long enough. He is putting his foot down and demanding that the gambling be moved into the proper zones by the end of June.

"It is imperative that these rules go into effect in due time," said Medvedev, "There will be no revisions, no pushing back, despite the lobbying efforts of various businesses."

The four zones that were approved for gambling in 2006 were the Far East, the Altai and Kaliningrad regions, and on the Azov Sea. Any gambling that is taking place outside of these zones must close down by July 1st.

At issue for casino owners is what to do with their properties. With casino gaming no longer an option, owners in Moscow are considering turning their establishments into restaurants, poker clubs, and concert halls. None of the options will be as profitable as gambling.

The gambling industry in Moscow is a powerful lobbying group, and they are attempting to use that political power to delay the June 30th deadline. It could cause a battle between the groups and the president.

"If the lobby wins in delaying the deadline, it will essentially mean that the state's word means nothing," said Dmitry Oreshkin, an analyst with Mercator, "so it's important for Medvedev, who is trying to show he is a serious politician."

May 12, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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