Bahamian gambling referendum, 2013

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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 to 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]

Choice	Votes	%
For	32,533	39.29
Against	50,270	60.71
Invalid/blank votes		–
Total	82,803	100
Source: Bahamas Local

Do you support the establishment of a National Lottery?^[4]

Choice	Votes	%
For	32,850	40.44
Against	48,389	59.56
Invalid/blank votes		–
Total	81,239	100
Source: Bahamas Local

References

1 2 3 Bahamas prepares two-part referendum that seeks to legalize gambling The Washington Post, 3 January 2013
↑ Voters in Bahamas Reject Gambling Referendum ABC News, 28 January 2013
↑ A Charter for Governance Progressive Liberal Party
1 2 3 National Address on a Referendum to ascertain Bahamian support for the regulation and taxation of Web Shop Gaming and the establishment of a National Lottery Government of Bahamas

Elections and referendums in the Bahamas

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Referendums	2002 2013 2016

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