A referendum on legalising web shops and establishing a national lottery was held in the Bahamas on 28 January 2013.[1] Both proposals were rejected by voters.[2]
Background
Gambling is currently illegal for Bahamian citizens. However, illegal gambling establishments known as "web shops" allow betting on American lottery numbers.[1] The referendum had been a campaign promise of the Progressive Liberal Party prior to the 2012 general elections.[3] After winning the elections, plans were announced in Parliament on 1 November 2012 to hold a referendum on legalising web shops on 3 December. However, on 16 November a further announcement was made that the national lottery question would also be asked and a new date of 28 January 2013 was proposed.[4]
Legalising and regulating the web shops was supported by Prime Minister Perry Christie, who claimed it could raise $20 million a year in tax revenues. However, religious groups opposed the move.[1]
Results
Do you support the regulation and taxation of Web Shop gaming?[4]
