Bulgaria Proposes New Fund to Combat Gambling Addiction

(AsiaGameHub) –   Bulgaria is enacting tougher measures to address gambling-related harm, with the nation’s Ministry of Health set to roll out a standardized framework for tackling gambling addiction. A draft regulation currently open for public feedback proposes creating a special fund to finance prevention and treatment efforts. The initiative seeks to combat addiction, safeguard younger individuals, and improve support access for those already impacted.

The New Measures Envision Strict Controls

Financing this new initiative is expected to be straightforward. Following amendments to Bulgaria’s Gambling Act in 2024, all licensed operators are required to make annual contributions dedicated to responsible gambling. The National Revenue Agency gathers these funds and splits them equally between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Proponents of the draft law contend it will introduce much-needed clarity into how the health share of operator fees is distributed. The legislation outlines a formal process for submitting, assessing, and greenlighting projects, prioritizing transparency and sustainable impact. Municipalities, hospitals, schools, non-profits, and public bodies would all qualify to apply.

To curb possible misuse, the bill establishes clear limits. Political parties, religious groups, and organizations with outstanding state debts would be barred from taking part. Initiatives that constitute commercial ventures or single events, like concerts or trips, will also not qualify. The Ministry of Health will focus on treatment programs, awareness drives, and educational projects with measurable, long-term results.

Operators Will Not Face Additional Burdens

The negative impact of gambling is an escalating concern in Bulgaria. Nearly 50,000 individuals have already enrolled in the national self-exclusion registry, which lets people ban themselves from licensed gambling platforms. Health authorities view this figure as evidence of the rising need for assistance. The proposed law does not impose fresh constraints or obligations on gambling businesses, concentrating instead on prevention, education, and treatment.

According to data from the National Revenue Agency, nearly 50,000 people have voluntarily registered in the national self-exclusion register, highlighting the scale of the problem and the need for consistent policies.

Bulgarian Ministry of Health statement

Alongside the funding changes, the Ministry of Health is launching new public resources. The national eHealth mobile app now includes details on the warning signs of gambling addiction and directs users to support services. The ministry’s goal is to facilitate earlier intervention, particularly for younger people who might not initially identify the issue.

The proposal remains at an early stage and is likely to see multiple changes before adoption. Nevertheless, it represents a significant step in reshaping Bulgaria’s strategy against gambling harm, framing it not as a standalone problem but as a component of a wider public health campaign needing reliable funding and collaborative action.