The Italian government has rejected a long-awaited draft reform of the country’s land-based gambling regulations, according to reports. The office of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni returned the proposed Decreto di Riordino del Gioco Fisico, a decree aimed at overhauling the rules for physical gaming venues, to the relevant authorities, signaling further delays for the sector.
The rejection means that the reform process, which has already been pending for years, will face additional postponement. The draft was reportedly sent back to the government, and it remains unclear when a revised version will be presented or what changes will be required. The news comes as a setback for stakeholders in Italy’s land-based gaming industry, which includes betting shops, bingo halls, and casinos, who have been awaiting a modernized regulatory framework.
Italy’s land-based gambling sector has been operating under rules that many consider outdated, and successive governments have attempted to introduce reforms to address issues such as licensing, taxation, and the fight against illegal gambling. The rejection by the Prime Minister’s office is the latest in a series of delays that have frustrated operators and players alike. Regulators across Europe have been tightening controls on gambling, and Italy’s reform is seen as part of a broader effort to bring the sector in line with modern standards.
For players who frequent land-based venues in Italy, the immediate impact is minimal: existing venues continue to operate under current rules, and there is no change to their ability to play. However, the delay means that any potential improvements in player protections, such as enhanced responsible gambling measures or clearer dispute resolution processes, will be postponed. Players may also face continued uncertainty about the future of certain types of venues, as the reform could have reshaped the market.
Observers will watch for the government’s next steps, including whether it will revise the draft and resubmit it, and how quickly the reform process can regain momentum. The outcome will determine the future regulatory landscape for land-based gambling in Italy.