The parliament with the ruling party holding the majority passed the Gaming Special Provisions Bill with a majority of 81 votes when it was taken up for debate today. The Bill was passed with 114 MPs voting in favor and 33 against in the first and second readings.
Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama presented the Bill in the House today.
After presenting the Bill Dr. Amunugama said the piece of legislation would ensure a central control on the licensing of casinos and gambling outlets.
"The Bill will enable the government to streamline all casinos, which are now being monitored under various state institutions," Dr. Amunugama said.
Although gambling or betting is not totally illegal in Sri Lanka they are not under government control at present.
Under the Gaming Bill a license would be required to set up a legalized gambling center and a hefty fine of $ 45,000 and a five-year jail term can be imposed on the violators.
The proposed Bill came under criticism from the main opposition United National Party (UNP) and the government ally monk party.
The UNP said the government is trying to increase its tax revenue through setting up of gaming centers and the measure may lead to increase in prostitution.
After completely eradicating terrorism from the country in May 2009, the government has embarked on an ambitious plan to promote the tourism industry and the proposed legislation on gambling and betting is seen as a measure to attract tourists to the country.
According to a Reuters report, gaming industry investors are already pushing for a position in the proposed $500-million tourism zone in Colombo's Beira Lake area with a $100-million hotel-casino complex.
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