Key Moments:
- Dennis Gratz from the Democratic Front has proposed amendments to the Gambling Act in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- The proposal outlines distributing 60% of gambling tax to the federal treasury, 20% to sports, culture, and youth education, and 20% to the Solidarity Fund for medical assistance.
- The legislative process faces challenges due to the nation’s complex structure, with the Federation and Republika Srpska operating as separate entities.
Gratz’s Proposed Gambling Act Amendments
Dennis Gratz, a member of the Democratic Front in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has introduced a plan to modify the country’s approach to distributing gambling tax revenue. Under his proposal, the allocation would maintain 60% of funds for the federal treasury.
The changes would redirect 20% of tax proceeds to activities such as sports, cultural initiatives, and youth education. The remaining 20% is designated for the Solidarity Fund, specifically aimed at providing medical support for individuals who cannot afford necessary treatments.
Social Impact and Support
Gratz has expressed concern that the Solidarity Fund has not received adequate attention under the current framework. He has advocated for gambling tax revenue to address broader social issues. As Gratz stated to Balkan News, “With these changes, every dollar invested in games of chance will have a purpose and make life more dignified and safer for the most vulnerable among us.”
He further emphasized the duty of the state, declaring, “No seriously ill child or young person should be left to fend for themselves due to lack of funds. This law is a step towards a society in which solidarity is not just a word, but a reality.”
Implementation Hurdles
The legislative process in Bosnia and Herzegovina is often complicated due to the nation’s division into the Federation and Republika Srpska. This political structure can slow progress and complicate consensus.
Despite these complexities, proponents of the reform view the plan as an opportunity to turn gambling tax revenues into targeted support for social welfare, rather than merely contributing to government funds.
Proposed Distribution of Gambling Tax Revenue
| Recipient | Percentage Allocation |
|---|---|
| Federal Treasury | 60% |
| Sports, Culture, and Youth Education | 20% |
| Solidarity Fund (Medical Assistance) | 20% |
- Author
Daniel Williams
