Ontario relaxes regulations on internet gambling.
In 2019, the Canadian province of Ontario revealed its budget strategy, which includes the liberalization of online gambling. This means that both online casinos and sports betting will be legalized, and the lottery sector will undergo modernization. Here's a detailed look at the government's plans.
Creating a Competitive Online Gambling Environment
The government of Ontario aims to end the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG)'s gambling monopoly and create a more liberalized market. They plan to legalize and regulate all forms of individual competition, such as online casinos, online sports betting, and online lotteries, to encourage competition. The budget proposal states: "We aim to create a competitive market for legal online gambling that meets the demands of customers and ensures player safety on gambling websites."
Outdated Legislation in Canada
Despite Canada's progressive nature, the country's gambling system hasn't been updated since the 1980s. Currently, Ontario offers only twelve casinos and a state lottery monopoly with a population of 14 million. All other forms of gambling have been illegal. Unfortunately, the outdated legislation does not account for today's thriving online gambling sector. Only OLG previous provided online gambling through its PlayOGA.ca website.
However, this is set to change. The government plans to include both online casinos and online sports betting in its liberalization efforts. According to sources, Ontario's authorities are currently consulting with key stakeholders in the iGaming industry to discuss the potential for a "progressive online sector with a new look."
The Sports Leagues' Support of Liberalization
Currently, only multiple event and parlay betting is allowed in Ontario. A change in the legislation would permit betting on individual sporting events. Professional sports leagues, like the NHL, the Canadian Football League, and the NBA, support this proposal. They believe that the reform is in their best interest and would protect them from illegal betting. Gary Bettman, the NHL's official representative, stated: "The NHL sees this as beneficial for the league and the province of Ontario." Don Garber, the CFL Commissioner, is also in favor, as are NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who expressed his support with the following statement: "The NBA supports Ontario's initiatives to legalize single betting. We will collaborate locally to create a safe and secure environment for Ontario's sports fans."
Modernizing the OLG
In addition to sports betting and online casino regulation, the budget plan also proposes changes to the OLG. These changes are designed to create job opportunities, expand business possibilities, and improve the security of gambling products.
To achieve this, the OLG lottery terminal will be updated, allowing consumers to buy popular products like Pro-Line and Lotto 6/49 through their smartphones. Plans also include allowing lottery tickets to be filled out at supermarkets and select retailers. There are even plans to upgrade Ontario's existing land-based casinos and prepare for construction of two new facilities in Pickering and Peterborough.
As the legalization of online gambling evolves, various reactions have surfaced. Some concerns, such as the introduction of free alcohol advertising in land-based casinos, have sparked criticism. The government claims that releasing these ads is crucial for creating fair competition. More developments are expected in the future.
Timeline:
- 2019: Ontario's government plans to open the gambling market to more players.
- 2019: With a new budget strategy, Ontario legalizes online sports betting and casino, as well as modernizes the OLG.
- 2021: Expansion and modernization of existing land-based casinos are planned.
- 2022: Construction of two new facilities in Pickering and Peterborough begins.
- 2023: Lottery terminals are updated to allow for mobile purchases.
- 2024: OLG's lottery retail network is expanded.
- 2025: Ontario's gambling laws and regulations are fully modernized.
Stay informed about these developments as they unfold!
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Source: www.onlinecasinosdeutschland.com
