Gambling Law Changes Damaging to Small Guys

Small clubs and businesses are being strangled under new gambling laws, says New Zealand First.

“Additional costs and requirements are going to hit smaller businesses, local RSAs and sports clubs hardest,” says New Zealand First Internal Affairs Spokesperson Clayton Mitchell.

The Gambling Amendment Bill (2) is the next in a group of gambling legislation before Parliament and could progress to its third reading this week.

“Small businesses will be hit by a barrage of additional requirements which will effectively legislate them out of existence through a series of amendments to the Gambling Act,” says Mr Mitchell.

“This latest Bill enables problem gamblers with self-exclusion orders to enter these premises but be excluded from the gambling area. This creates additional security expenses for these small businesses.

“The cumulative effect of the Gambling Amendment Bills is creating a perfect storm. Many small businesses and clubs may be forced to close while at the same time casinos that have the cash to pay the excessive charges will prosper,” says Mr Mitchell.

ENDS

© Scoop Media