South African Parliament Passes Online Gambling Bill

By Mike Sachoff - Tue, 05/20/2008 - 9:35am.

Goal is to protect players

The South African parliament has passed an Internet gambling law with the goal of regulating the industry in the country.

A memorandum attached to the National Gambling Amendment Bill, describes the industry as "plagued by crime" and states,"This situation has resulted in a considerable loss of revenue to the national fiscus and compromises the country's reputation as a responsible global citizen."

"The purpose of this Act is to ensure that all gambling activities are conducted responsibly, fairly and honestly (and to) protect minors and other vulnerable persons from the negative effects of gambling."

The new online gambling law will focus on the negative effects of gambling online, including money laundering, addiction and player protection.

The bill requires all players in South Africa to register with a licensed online gambling company and they must also submit an affidavit to prove they are over 18 years old.

The online gambling law calls for an electronic monitoring system to help identify potentially addictive behavior and limit credit extensions to players.

South African president Thabo Mbeki still needs to sign the bill into law before it comes into effect.