Thai casino bill pushed to bottom of legislative agenda following public resistance
Government delays debate amid growing opposition, prioritises other draft laws instead.
Key points:
– Casino-entertainment bill deprioritised by Pheu Thai
– Public pressure cited as reason for delay
– Other legislation now takes precedence in upcoming session
The Thai Government has decided to defer consideration of the bill proposing integrated entertainment complexes that include casinos.
The decision comes amid increasing public opposition ahead of Parliament’s return next week, according to numerous reports in Thailand.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri confirmed that the Pheu Thai Party has requested the casino-entertainment bill be moved to the bottom of the legislative agenda. This shift will allow other draft laws, such as those relating to social reconciliation and political amnesty, to be debated first.
Originally, the bill was scheduled as the first item for deliberation on 9 July. Charoensri stated that the government’s choice reflects its intention to respond to public sentiment. She rejected suggestions that the move was prompted by pressure from the opposition, emphasising that the administration acts based on input from the people.
Good to know: The casino element was intended to make up only 10% of each entertainment complex. Despite this, the proposal has drawn sustained criticism from members of the public and civil groups
Charoensri also noted that separate legislation to implement the THB20 (US$0.62) flat fare policy for electric trains in Bangkok is proceeding. Of the four related bills, three have been reviewed. The final one, focusing on the flat fare measure itself, is expected to complete its committee stage soon.
The package is projected to be enacted between September and October, with coalition support anticipated despite potential resistance from some senators formerly aligned with the Bhumjaithai Party.
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