Romania's gambling industry faces a major structural change: an Emergency Ordinance approved by the government transfers significant powers from ONJN to local authorities. Specifically, mayors and local councils will be able to issue zoning authorisations that determine where gambling halls and betting shops may operate — or ban them entirely.
What Changes from the Current System
Until now, operators only needed a national licence from ONJN, and municipalities could offer opinions but had no right of veto. Under the new framework, local authorities gain the effective power to block the establishment of new venues.
Arguments For and Against
Supporters argue that local communities are best placed to decide whether and how gambling takes place near schools or hospitals. Opponents — among them licensed operators — warn that the result could be extreme market fragmentation.
Implications for Online Gambling
The new legislation explicitly applies to physical venues. ONJN-licensed online gambling is not directly affected. The advice remains: always play on ONJN-authorised platforms.