The black and blue state government of Salzburg wants to legalize illegal gambling and make a major impact in the process. For parts of the opposition, the plans are a ‘declaration of bankruptcy’ and a ‘bow to the gambling mafia.
“Kowling for the gambling mafia”, “addiction turbo” and “declaration of bankruptcy” – the clear reactions of the opposition came yesterday like a shot from a gun. Deputy Governor Marlene Svazek (FPÖ) had previously announced that he would “legalize illegal, small-scale gambling in Salzburg”.
What exactly does it mean? The state issues licenses and determines who can operate slot machines in casinos in Austria. Outside of that it is illegal gambling. About 67 illegal machines were recently seized in the city.
Curious: Salzburg ranks first nationally this year with 187 ATMs discovered by the financial police. The other eight federal states together have “only” 170. The legal situation in Vorarlberg, Tyrol and Vienna is comparable to that in Salzburg. The FPÖ and ÖVP say: “The district authorities and the authorities in Salzburg are working very well.” Therefore, the disguised gambling dens would be discovered.
FPÖ reference to data from the “role model” Upper Austria
Besides curbing illegality through legalization, the state government also expects to generate millions in revenue. The opposition is rolling up its sleeves. “The income, regardless of the addiction, is immoral,” mutters the SPÖ. The KPÖ speaks of “income on the backs of addicts”. The Greens believe that legalization will not eliminate illegal supply, but they will be ‘inundated with hundreds of extra machines’.
“Necessary supplies” from Casino Salzburg
A spokesperson for the FPÖ contradicts this with a study by the Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce – where Black and Blue also governs -: Small-scale gambling has been legalized next door. The number of illegal ATMs has fallen from 4,000 to around 100 since 2014. Legal providers, who have to pay 25 percent, are very interested in identifying black sheep. And: “Unlike prohibited warehouses, legal gambling involves trained staff and people are followed.”
The Casinos Austria are the top dogs in Salzburg. The state government’s plans come unexpectedly. “In principle, we believe that with the two casinos and three WinWin locations we can provide the necessary range of safe and legal gambling.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
