Thailand senate to review casino bill even after house clearance
The Thai Senate is looking to establish a committee to study the potential impacts of the proposed Casino and Entertainment Complex Bill after the House examines it next week. The move comes as protests against the legislation continue, with critics arguing that it threatens public morality and lacks adequate consultation, Bangkok Post reported.
Pisit Apiwattanapong, a senator and spokesperson for the Senate committee on Senate affairs, confirmed that two motions related to the project have been added to the agenda for the Senate’s meeting on 8 April 2025. Senators are expected to debate the bill and assess its possible social and economic ramifications before the House moves forward with deliberations.
Bill to establish regulated casinos
The proposed bill includes provisions to establish regulated casino zones within entertainment complexes, with strict licensing requirements for operators. It also outlines measures to curb gambling addiction, such as self-exclusion programmes and age restrictions. A portion of the revenue generated would be allocated to social welfare and public infrastructure projects.
Despite growing public opposition, the House debate on the Casino and Entertainment Complex Bill is scheduled for 9 April 2025. However, reports suggest that discussions may be brought forward, prompting concerns among critics that the process is being rushed without sufficient public input.
Protests mount against casino bill
The bill has faced strong resistance from various civic groups, religious organisations, and lawmakers who believe it could encourage gambling addiction, corruption, and economic disparity. Protesters continue to gather outside government buildings, urging politicians to reject the bill.
On 1 April 2025, a demonstration was held outside Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s official residence, Phitsanulok Mansion, in Bangkok. Around 80 people participated, including members of the Network of Students and People for Thailand’s Reform, the Centre of People for the Protection of the Monarchy, and the Dharma Army. Protesters voiced concerns that legalising casinos would have long-term negative effects on Thai society.
Former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan has called for another protest outside parliament on 4 April 2025. He urged critics to wear white shirts as a symbol of their opposition and accused the government of pushing the bill forward despite urgent national concerns, such as the recent earthquake and ongoing relief efforts.
Opposition urged to reject the bill
The bill’s critics argue that it was not part of any election campaign and lacks a comprehensive study on its potential impact. Thanakorn Kromkrit, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, submitted a petition to House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha and People’s Party (PP) leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, urging all political parties to reject the bill. He also called for a national referendum before any decision is made.
Natthaphong warned that the legislation might not address the economic issues it claims to solve and could primarily benefit select groups rather than the wider public.
Meanwhile, as of now, four cities are being promoted for the casinos, including capital Bangkok and other major urban centres, as part of the proposed entertainment complex initiative. Supporters argue that the project could boost tourism and economic growth, while critics fear it may encourage organised crime and financial disparity. With the House debate slated for next week, senators remain divided on the casino proposal. Many lawmakers are pushing for a detailed public review before any decision is finalised.
As protests continue and political tensions rise, the fate of the Casino and Entertainment Complex Bill remains uncertain. Observers will be closely watching the Senate’s deliberations and the House debate on 9 April to see whether the legislation moves forward or faces further opposition.
