Gaming (Transfer of Functions) Act
Passed
Simplified for You
What this bill does
This bill transfers responsibility for overseeing all forms of gambling in Bermuda to a single authority - the Bermuda Gaming Commission (previously called the Bermuda Casino Gaming Commission). It expands the Commission's powers beyond just casinos to cover lotteries, betting, cruise ship gambling, and other gaming activities, while also strengthening penalties and creating new gambling offenses.
If Passed (Voted Yes)
One government body (the Gaming Commission) would regulate all gambling in Bermuda instead of having different agencies handle different types of gambling
Much stricter penalties would apply - fines could reach up to $500,000 and prison terms up to 5 years for illegal gambling operations
New restrictions would ban most gambling activities unless specifically licensed, including private betting and possession of gaming machines
If Rejected (Voted No)
Gambling regulation would remain split between different government departments and ministers
Current penalty levels would stay the same (much lower fines around $2,880 in many cases)
Existing gambling laws would continue unchanged, with less comprehensive oversight
Who It Affects
This affects anyone involved in gambling in Bermuda - from casino operators and cruise ship companies to people running charity lotteries or even making private bets. Gaming Commission staff, problem gambling counselors, and law enforcement would also see significant changes in their roles and responsibilities.
Vote counts are not published.
The Bermuda Parliament does not publicly record individual vote counts or how each member voted.
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Related Bill
Gaming (Transfer of Functions) Act
Download bill PDF