The National Assembly has referred the Gaming Authority Bill 2026 to a special select committee for further examination as the Government advances efforts to strengthen the regulation and oversight of Guyana’s gaming and betting industry.
The decision was taken during Wednesday’s sitting of the National Assembly following a motion presented by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC.
The legislation, identified as Bill No. 12 of 2026, was first introduced in July and seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for gaming, betting and wagering activities across Guyana.
Addressing the House, Nandlall requested that the bill be referred to a special select committee in accordance with the relevant Standing Orders.
Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir subsequently confirmed the referral and indicated that a committee would be established to examine the proposed legislation.
The bill seeks to establish the Gaming Authority of Guyana, which would be responsible for licensing, regulating, supervising and monitoring gaming-related activities.
The proposed authority would exercise oversight of casinos, gaming lounges, betting shops, betting agents and remote gaming platforms.
Its regulatory responsibilities would also extend to simulcast betting and activities associated with horse and hound racing.
A central feature of the legislation is the establishment of clear operating standards for businesses and individuals participating in the gaming industry.
These would include licensing requirements, compliance obligations and provisions governing the equipment used in gaming operations.
The bill also proposes mechanisms for enforcement, including administrative penalties and other measures to address breaches of the legislation.
The proposed legislation places emphasis on strengthening safeguards against money laundering and the financing of terrorism within the gaming sector.
It provides for obligations intended to ensure that operators maintain appropriate standards and comply with applicable financial regulations.
The bill also seeks to promote responsible gaming through the establishment of a Responsible Gaming Fund.
These provisions are intended to support a regulatory environment in which gaming activities can be monitored and operated in accordance with established legal standards.
The referral to a special select committee forms part of the parliamentary process for examining proposed legislation in greater detail.
The committee will have an opportunity to consider the bill’s provisions and make recommendations before it returns to the National Assembly for further consideration.
