GGL gambling authority seeks more power against illegal operators

The Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), based in Halle (Saale), is calling for expanded powers to combat illegal online gambling. GGL board member Ronald Benter stated that the authority needs to react more swiftly to market changes, noting that the current Interstate Treaty on Gambling (Glücksspielstaatsvertrag) contains highly detailed regulations that can make adjustments a multi-year process.

Benter is advocating for greater decision-making autonomy for the GGL, to be exercised in coordination with its administrative board. Additionally, the authority is pushing for increased legal action against international providers. The GGL suggests that public prosecutors should be able to initiate criminal proceedings against individuals operating illegal gambling services from outside Germany that target German users, a practice that Benter noted currently occurs almost never.