Cabinet approves casino regulations bill

NHK -- Apr 28

Japan's Cabinet approved a bill to regulate casino operations on Friday. The proposed legislation lays the groundwork for the opening of "integrated resorts" that include casinos.

The bill would initially allow the resorts to be built in 3 designated areas. The designations would be reviewed after 7 years.

The legislation also requires casino operators to pay 30 percent of their profits into state coffers.

Residents of Japan would have to pay 6,000 yen, or about 55 dollars, as an admission fee. Visits to casinos would be limited to 3 a week, and a maximum of 10 in 4 weeks. These provisions are aimed at curbing gambling addiction.

The government plans to set up a panel to screen operators to prevent infiltration by criminal groups.

Officials hope to obtain Diet approval for the legislation during the current session.