Congress has approved a new law regulating gaming in Spain, the first major overhaul of gaming since it was decriminalised in 1977.
In addition to the traditional forms of gambling, such as bingo and casinos, the new legislation covers internet and telephonic betting, areas previously unregulated.
The Finance Committee of Congress has incorporated hundreds of amendments to the legislation, most agreed by all parties, and the text of the new law will now be passed to the Senate for approval.
A transitional period has been included in the legislation to allow companies to conform to the new law with regard to company status, sponsorship activities and advertising in the media. Many gaming companies sponsor leading football teams.
Amongst the changes that are being introduced is a requirement for companies involved in internet gambling in Spain to have a Spanish domain name (such as .es) to allow for easier supervision and control.
The new law also establishes mechanisms for the regulation and management of the sector to enhance legal security for both operators and consumers for different types of gaming as well as protecting minors and those who are legally prohibited from gambling.