Botoșani Prefect challenges local gambling regulations

The Prefect of Botoșani, Raluca Curelariu, has petitioned the Botoșani Tribunal to annul Decision No. 335, adopted by the Botoșani Local Council on October 14, 2026. The decision concerns the authorization and operating conditions for gambling operators within the municipality.

According to the Prefect, the regulation contains significant legal flaws. Specifically, the Prefect noted that the mandatory 150-meter minimum distance from sensitive locations is applied inconsistently. While the rule applies to high schools and psychiatric hospitals, it fails to protect kindergartens, primary and middle schools, religious sites, and other health centers. The Prefect described this differentiation as arbitrary and lacking legal foundation.

Under Law No. 554/2004, the decision is suspended by law pending a final court ruling. This marks the second time this year the Prefect's institution has contested gambling-related decisions by the Local Council.