Dominican Republic gambling law review debate

Legal sports betting operators in the Dominican Republic are advocating for a more thorough and participatory review of the proposed General Gambling Law currently under consideration by the Senate.

Initially, representatives met with the Council for Monitoring the Gambling Regularization Plan to express concerns that the draft could allow for the expansion of electronic and virtual gambling in unrestricted spaces. They warned that such a move could make supervision difficult and increase risks to minors. Operators called for clearer regulatory provisions to ensure equitable conditions and transparent tax treatment.

Following these developments, the Association of Dominican Gambling Operators (ADOBAD) escalated its efforts by sending a letter to President Luis Abinader. ADOBAD warned that the current draft could jeopardize thousands of jobs and create investment insecurity. The association specifically highlighted the potential for a massive expansion of electronic games through horse racing agencies and noted concerns regarding the 29,000 licenses approved by the National Horse Racing Commission.

Adding to these concerns, Ricardo Nadal Martínez, president of the National Association of Sports Betting, has raised questions regarding the integrity of the legislative process. Nadal suggested that the proximity of certain lawmakers to the gambling industry could exert undue influence on the new regulations. He noted that while some legislators may not officially serve on relevant commissions, evidence including video recordings suggests their presence at meetings related to the project, creating potential conflicts of interest due to their business ties to the sector.