New raffle regulations: the bill that seeks to control gambling in the DR
The gambling landscape in the Dominican Republic is about to undergo significant changes. The Gambling Bill, recently sent by the Chamber of Deputies to the Senate of the Republic, establishes a strict regulatory framework that will directly impact those who organize raffles, whether for charitable or commercial purposes.
Mandatory license for all types of raffles
In accordance with article 112 of the legislative piece, any natural or legal person wishing to hold a raffle must mandatorily have a license issued by the Gaming Council. This provision puts an end to the common practice of holding informal raffles by companies, non-profit organizations, or churches without any type of state supervision.
The project details that the conditions, requirements, and administrative fees to obtain said permit will be defined through Council resolutions. Furthermore, a period of fifteen days after the draw is established for the payment of fees to the National Treasury; otherwise, a 5% monthly late fee will be applied to the outstanding amount.
Severe penalties: prison and financial fines
The regulations classify raffles within the legal category of games of chance, which entails drastic consequences for those who operate outside the law. Authorities may proceed with the immediate closure of physical premises and the blocking of digital platforms that promote unauthorized sweepstakes.
- Minor imprisonment: Those who operate unlicensed gambling games face penalties of 1 to 2 years in prison, in addition to fines of three to six public sector minimum wages.
- Unauthorized operations: The sale of tickets in establishments without permits or in an ambulatory manner can lead to penalties of 2 to 5 years in prison and fines of nine to fifteen minimum wages.
- Entity liability: Legal entities, such as NGOs or churches, will be directly sanctioned with the payment of the fines corresponding to the infractions committed.
The main objective of this initiative is to organize, modernize, and unify the regulation of the entire betting industry in the country, a sector that has grown rapidly and requires greater institutional control.
With the opening of the Second Ordinary Legislature, the Senate of the Republic now has the responsibility of evaluating the modifications made by the Lower House. Once approved, the bill will move to the Executive Branch for its eventual enactment, setting a precedent in the oversight of gambling activities in the national territory.
