New gambling law in Saarland: Tighter rules for arcades

Things aren't easy for arcade operators in Germany: minimum distances, the energy crisis and other regulations are creating a difficult business situation that ultimately affects the players. The state of Saarland has now introduced updated and stricter regulations in the form of a new arcades law. The ruling party openly states that the regulations are intended to reduce the gambling offering in the state.

Despite all the games available on the internet, many of us still enjoy going to our local arcade. There is a special atmosphere, people know each other and for some people these remote areas are simply fascinating or adventurous. For gambling regulators and politicians, on the other hand, they are rather difficult.

For example, a minimum distance of 500 metres between casinos has just been introduced in Bremen. At the height of the energy crisis, companies were threatened with restrictions on night gambling. And in general, calls for more sustainability in casinos are getting louder.

Whether you are a fan of such gambling establishments or not, it is clear from this situation that the operators are coming under increasing pressure. In Saarland, this pressure has now been further increased. In addition to a new minimum distance, the updated gambling hall law also provides for earlier closing times. In addition, the governing SPD wants to impose a complete smoking ban and a total ban on serving alcoholic beverages.

This is exactly what the Saarland government has planned

In mid-October 2023, a new gaming law was passed in Saarland. It focuses on the following three points.

• Minimum distance: In future, amusement arcades will have to keep a minimum distance of 250 metres from addiction counselling centres. The requirement also applies to schools or day-care centres and, in general, to establishments frequented mainly by minors.
• Earlier closing times: In addition, amusement arcades will have to close their doors at 2:00 am. The previous regulation stipulated a closing time of 4.00 a.m.
• Restrictions on consumption: Finally, smoking will no longer be allowed in Saarland's amusement arcades. Alcoholic drinks may no longer be served.

The SPD, Saarland's sole governing party, immediately commented on the decision. MP Stefan Löw said that the aim of the law was to reduce the amount of gambling on offer in the state. He described the new regulations as the strictest gambling law in Germany.

The opposition clearly criticises the new arcade law

The main criticism of the new gambling law in Saarland came from the CDU: the party took a strong stance against the regulation. MP Stefan Thielen made it clear that the party was not interested in expanding gambling in the state, but was concerned about the operators and their rights. As far as the companies were concerned, the decision was difficult in terms of professional and economic freedom as well as the right to property.

In addition, Thielen highlighted a particular danger that the restrictions posed to players: There was a high risk that gambling would be pushed into illegality. As an alternative, he called for a tougher approach to the legal prosecution of illegal gambling offers. It would also make sense to focus more on promoting measures to prevent addiction.

Conclusion

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