The ANJ (l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux) has formed a six-member Sanctions Commission, empowered to enforce penalties on non-compliant gambling operators. Led by Frédéric Dieu and comprising notable figures from France’s legal bodies, this commission is tasked with addressing breaches within the gambling industry.
Commission Members and Authority
Frédéric Dieu, alongside Dorothée Pradines from France’s Conseil d’État, will spearhead the commission. Fabrice Delbano and Véronique Boisselett, both advisers to the French Court of Cassation, join them, along with Nicolas Brunner and Maud Choquet, judges from the Cour des Comptes. This diverse group holds the authority to impose fines and suspensions, capped at 5% of a company’s turnover, for non-compliance issues.
ANJ’s Concerns and Commission’s Role
The ANJ recently identified breaches in the gambling industry, forwarding these issues to the Sanctions Commission. Among them is the violation of the rule restricting operators from returning more than 85% of players’ stakes. Seven operators breached this regulation in 2021, leading to a discussion within the Commission regarding potential actions to be taken.
Furthermore, two operators face accusations of neglecting their responsibility to identify and support individuals with excessive or pathological gambling behaviors. The ANJ highlighted that these operators failed to promptly identify customers with problematic gambling habits and provided insufficient support measures, which poses a serious concern.
Commission’s Jurisdiction and Implications
The Sanctions Commission plays a crucial role in maintaining regulatory compliance within the gambling sector. Its decisions carry weighty consequences for operators found in breach. From issuing warnings to imposing substantial financial penalties, the commission aims to ensure adherence to gambling regulations and protect consumers from potential harm caused by irresponsible gambling practices.
The establishment of the Sanctions Commission by the ANJ signifies a firm commitment to enforcing stringent regulations within the gambling industry. Its diverse composition and authoritative capabilities are pivotal in addressing non-compliance issues, safeguarding the integrity of gambling practices, and prioritizing consumer protection.