State Duma approved an increase of penalties for illegal gambling

The government initiative to strengthen administrative responsibility for illegal gambling organization was approved in the first reading.

A bill includes the introduction of amendments to the Code of Administrative Offences.

According to amendments, a penalty for distributing lottery tickets illegally will be from 2 to 3 thousand rubles for citizens, from 10 to 20 thousand rubles for administrative officials, and from 20 to 40 thousand rubles for legal entities.

Besides, it is offered to fine citizens for installing lottery machines for 3-5 thousand rubles, administrative officials for 15-30 thousand rubles, and legal entities will have to pay from 30 to 50 thousand rubles.

A penalty for lodging illegal gambling venues will be also increased. If a lessor is caught repeatedly violating the law, they will have to pay from one to one and half million rubles. All gambling equipment will be confiscated.