Bangkok: The Senate has approved the submission of a study report on integrated entertainment venues with casinos to the Cabinet for consideration. The study, which indicates that the negative impacts of such complexes outweigh the positives, was presented by Sorachat, who hopes to explore the possibility of legalizing casinos.
According to Thai News Agency, the Senate meeting, chaired by First Vice President of the Senate, General Kriangkrai Srirak, reviewed the report on the proposal to open a full-service entertainment complex, including a casino. The special committee, led by Senator Dr. Veerapan Suwannamai, concluded its study, highlighting the multidimensional impacts on society and the economy, and potential national security risks. The committee recommended against the bill, but suggested a referendum if the government wishes to proceed.
Senator Sorrachat Wichaya Suwannaprom, Vice Chairman of the Committee, proposed invoking Regulation 100 to establish a new committee to further study key principles, such as integrated entertainment without casinos and online casino systems. He suggested reforms in legal frameworks and revenue sharing should be studied, referencing Sydney, Australia’s model of tourist-only casinos.
While most senators backed the committee’s findings, Senator Chinnachot Saengsang criticized the government’s draft bill as deceptive, arguing the primary objective was to open casinos. He urged the new government to avoid a casino policy to maintain long-term power.
Senator Sitthikorn Thongyot highlighted concerns about previous government initiatives promoting gambling, such as poker abolition and retirement lotteries. He warned against introducing the draft bill to Parliament, fearing it could lead to disaster.
Dr. Viraphan suggested politicians consider legal casino policies in their campaigns post-dissolution of the House of Representatives. Following the debate, Mr. Boonsong Noisophon, Second Vice President of the Senate, announced that the matter would be forwarded to the Cabinet for further consideration.