Bill C290, “An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (Sports Betting)”, is a private members bill that would remove an out-of-date section of the Criminal Code that prevents single-event sport wagering in Canada. The bill, unanimously approved by all parties in the House of Commons, remains stalled in the Senate.
Bill C290, “An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (Sports Betting)”, is a private members bill that would remove an out-of-date section of the Criminal Code that prevents single-event sport wagering in Canada. The bill, unanimously approved by all parties in the House of Commons, remains stalled in the Senate.
Canadians are currently only permitted to make parlay bets (betting on the outcome of three or more events), which is an unpopular and disliked choice for many people. What C290 is proposing is a simple amendment to permit wagering on the outcome of a single sporting event.
Bill C290 continues to be a priority for: the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA), which advocates for player protection and regulation; the provinces, which understand the opportunities for job creation and revenue generation; and the tens of thousands of Canadians who would prefer a non-criminal environment for placing their bets. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Labour Congress, and nine provincial governments all support bill C290.
The Globe and Mail recently put C290 on the front page to highlight the rarity of an unelected body pushing back on a law supported by all parties.
There is strong support in the Senate for passage of the Bill in spite of the ongoing procedural delays of the minority opposed. However, to ensure that the provinces don’t go through another Super Bowl without the option of single-event sport wagering forceful and persuasive action is required.
C290NOW.ca, a website developed specifically to address the debate regarding C290, features a counter that captures the amount of money illegally leaving the country and an option for contacting your senator to urge him or her to pass the bill.
The CGA is urging everyone to take action and speak up. After all, decriminalizing single-event sports wagering should be a priority for all Canadians who want to enjoy this pastime in a safe and lawful manner.