News item | 28-03-2025 | 15:15
Bingo has been a popular way to bring people together for years, but due to an unintended effect of the Alcohol Act it was no longer possible to organize a bingo in places where alcohol is also served. State Secretary Karremans (Youth, Prevention and Sport) intervenes and ensures that this unintended disability goes off the table. Bingo’s non -profit motive can soon take place again at locations with an alcohol permit. Legislation that is intended to tackle the risk of addiction of gambling and alcohol should of course not end in banning a beer or lawyer at the Bingo.
On the proposal of State Secretary Karremans, the Council of Ministers agreed to send a change to the Alcohol Act for advice to the Council of State. The expectation is that the House of Representatives can treat it after the summer, so that bingos can start again at these locations.
Tackle unintended effects
State Secretary Karremans: “If a law unintentionally makes something impossible, it is our task to solve it. Of course we remain alert to the risks of gambling and alcohol, but Bingo is mainly about cosiness, social contacts and a fun afternoon. We want to encourage, not hinder that.
I have previously called on mayors not to maintain during this transition period, and I am doing that again. The amendment to the law is now ready for treatment. Let’s make sure that everyone can just enjoy bingo, with or without a drink of your choice. ”
Clear rules for small games of chance
The change makes an exception to the ban on games of chance in catering establishments for small -scale bingos. The Gambling Act sets a number of conditions for small games of chance such as bingos, such as a maximum price of 400 euros per round and that the organization must be in the hands of a Dutch association that has been around for at least three years and is not aimed at games of chance.
Stricter controls on alcohol delivery to minors
In addition to the Bingo adjustment, the amendment to the law regulates that – in addition to online sellers – delivery people are also punishable if they deliver alcohol to minors. The NVWA sees this and can hand out fines with the help of minor test buyers.