New Procedure for Treating Gambling Addicts Without Dispensary Registration Introduced
Kazakhstan is introducing a new procedure to treat gambling addicts without requiring registration with a dispensary. This change aims to offer high-quality, free medical care to those struggling with gambling addiction.
Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports Miras Tulebaev highlighted that many gambling addicts avoid government clinics due to stigma and the consequences of being officially registered.
Currently, only 19 gambling addicts are officially registered, a number that does not reflect the true extent of the issue. Most individuals seek costly rehabilitation in private organizations. The new procedure will ensure anonymity in public clinics.
Additionally, the new law will make payments to illegal gambling operators illegal. Once the law is enacted, online casino organizers will face criminal charges under Article 307 of the Criminal Code. The list of licensed gambling operators will be available on the Ministry’s website and the e-licensing portal.
The law also bans lottery terminals and electronic lotteries (lotto clubs). Lottery products will now be available only through the official websites and mobile apps of licensed lottery operators.
