A new gambling bill is expected to be introduced in the Netherlands by the close of 2025. Teun Struycken, the State Secretary for Legal Protection, has suggested increasing the minimum age for online slot games to 21 as part of comprehensive regulatory changes designed to improve player safety. During his most recent report to parliament on February 14, Struycken highlighted the importance of protecting all individuals, not just gamblers, from the dangers associated with gambling. A government review, which began last year and was released in November, determined that the current responsible gambling strategies were inadequate, as they did not establish a stable and secure market in accordance with the Remote Gambling Act. Struycken has suggested reforms that involve increasing the minimum age to 21 for participating in „risky“ games of chance, like slot machines, and establishing comprehensive deposit limits. Talks are currently underway to expedite specific measures, including tightening the responsibilities of operators and implementing stricter advertising regulations. Gambling advertisements are currently banned from being shown on television, radio, and in public areas, and online promotions are restricted to individuals aged 24 and older. Additional regulations are intended to greatly diminish the attractiveness of online gambling. Moreover, Struycken is looking to enhance enforcement by giving the Dutch gambling authority (KSA) greater authority to implement stricter deposit limits, perform assessments of financial capability for deposit escalations, and shut down illegal gambling websites. He plans to involve European policymakers in tackling the increasing problem of cross-border illegal gambling. Struycken emphasized that his main goal is to safeguard people from the negative effects of gambling, such as addiction and financial hardships, especially targeting minors and young adults. Teun Struycken, the State Secretary for Legal Protection, stated: To me, the top priority should be safeguarding every citizen from the dangers associated with gambling. By taking this approach, I not only focus on preventing addiction but also consider other negative consequences of gambling participation, like incurring debts.
