Schleswig-Holstein passes online gaming regulation extension

Politicians in the German state of Schleswig-Holstein have rubber stamped the extension of online gambling licences until 30 June 2021.

The licences would previously have expired in December 2019 but the extension is designed to give German politicians time to create a new nationwide licensing regime for online gambling.

All existing regulatory standards will continue to apply under the extended legislation.

Speaking about the passage of the legislation, Schleswig-Holstein Interior Minister Hans-Joachim Grote said it was the duty of the government to limit the use of gambling “to a reasonable extent” to prevent problem gambling, crime and to protect players.

Grote called on German politicians to “take every opportunity” to regulate online gambling

“This can only be achieved with effective gambling regulation. The aim of this regulation is also that gambling is conducted properly, fairly, responsibly and transparently,” Grote added.

The initiative was backed by representatives from Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Greens, Free Democratic Party (FDP), South Schleswig Voters’ Association (SSW) and Alternative for Germany (AFD) political parties.

In the interim period between now and 2021, representatives from all 16 states have agreed to develop an effective national licensing and regulatory regime for sports betting and potentially online casino.

Schleswig Holstein, Hesse and North Rhinewestphalia are thought to be in favour of online casino regulation

However, several states are uncomfortable with the idea of regulating online gambling, something which Grote acknowledged, but said that politicians must “take every opportunity to influence it”.

“Only by tying our permission to certain conditions can we monitor whether the substantive legal requirements for gambling allowed are respected, and this is the only way we can combat illegal operators, and we will continue to work hard to achieve that goal,” Grote added.