The Thüringian Casino Law 2004 is being amended to introduce the Thüringian Law on Casino and Online Casino (ThürSpbkOCG). This new law will establish operating conditions for online table games, which are currently restricted under Germany’s state treaty on gambling, the Glücksspielneuregulieringsstaatsvertrag (GlüNeuRStV).
Starting from 1 July, the GlüNeuRStV enabled the introduction of online slots for all licensees. However, it limits each state to issuing table game licenses equal to the number of land-based casinos it has. If a state, like Thüringia, doesn’t have any land-based casinos, it can grant the state lottery exclusive rights to offer table games.
The bill explains that the introduction of virtual slot machine games under a permit system for private providers in the GlüNeuRStV has necessitated the need to limit online casino offerings and establish a monopoly. This will create a clear distinction between the offerings of slot and table games.
The draft bill states that the table games license holder can apply for a ten-year license. In this case, Lotto Thüringen could potentially apply and contribute additional income to the state if it is permitted to expand into this vertical.
The bill highlights the “increased risk of manipulation” in online table games where the organizer also acts as the banker. Therefore, applicants must provide a high level of detailed information to secure the exclusive rights.
The bill has been submitted to the European Commission for approval before it can become law. It is currently in a standstill period until 24 February 2022.
