The Romanian Parliament is examining a bill that would fundamentally change young people's access to gambling, raising the legal age from 18 to 21. The initiative is part of a wave of approximately 20 legislative proposals aimed at reforming Romania's gambling sector.
The Case for the Proposal
Supporters of raising the gambling age cite data on the prevalence of problem gambling among young adults in Romania. Studies show that people aged between 18 and 21 are among the most vulnerable to developing addictive gambling behaviours.
The Arguments Against
Opponents point out that Romanian citizens can vote, drive and serve in the military at 18. There is also a practical argument: a higher age in the legal sector could push young players towards illegal platforms with no protections at all.
Current Status of Debates
The proposal is still in the parliamentary debate phase and has not gained sufficient consensus to advance quickly. The ONJN president has stated his support for comprehensive legislative reform but has not taken a specific public position on the age-raising proposal.