Published on: December 3, 2025, 10:59 AM.
Updated on: December 3, 2025, 10:59 AM.
- New Gaming Control Act set to be implemented in April 2026
- Government to introduce new policies aimed at preventing money laundering and promoting responsible gambling
- Creation of an independent gambling control office to oversee regulations in British Columbia
The provincial government of British Columbia successfully navigated a confidence vote concerning modifications to the Mental Health Act last night, simultaneously advancing various legislative measures, including the impending Gaming Control Act.
The forthcoming Act is designed to implement recommendations aimed at addressing fraud and money laundering derived from two significant inquiries: Peter German’s Dirty Money report in 2018 and the Cullen Commission’s investigation into money laundering in 2022.
As per a statement from B.C.’s Public Safety and Solicitor General, the Gaming Control Act will establish an independent gambling regulator empowered to issue orders to the BC Lottery Corporation without the need for ministry approval.
Responses from the German Report and Cullen Commission
The new Gaming Control Act is scheduled to take effect on April 13, 2026. The province’s upcoming Independent Gambling Control Office will wield the authority to pursue criminal offenses. This office will evolve from the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch and will oversee both charitable gambling and horse racing regulations.
“Money laundering poses a significant challenge within our province and nationwide, necessitating robust oversight measures,” stated Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “This new act establishes a solid regulatory framework allowing our Independent Gambling Control Office to more effectively address criminal activities and safeguard citizens in B.C.”
The Cullen Commission concluded its work in 2022 with a groundbreaking report revealing billions being laundered through casinos, real estate, luxury vehicles, and high-end goods, frequently stemming from drug trade revenues. The report emphasized the urgent need for improved government oversight among its numerous recommendations.
Establishment of a New Gambling Regulator
The previous legislation was enacted in 2022, but the new update accounts for the rapid evolution of online gambling and associated technologies. Key suggestions from the Cullen Commission and German Report include the formation of an independent gambling regulator and clarifications regarding the responsibilities of the BC Lottery Corporation and the regulator. It advocates for a standards-based regulatory approach and places the onus of combating money laundering on the newly formed regulator while allowing it to issue directives to BCLC.
The independent gambling control office will have a general manager responsible for crafting and enforcing regulations pertaining to gambling and horse racing. This individual will oversee the implementation of new requirements aimed at detecting and preventing problem gambling and illegal activities, including money laundering both in brick-and-mortar casinos and online platforms.
Currently, the only legal online gambling option for B.C. residents is through BCLC’s PlayNow.com platform.
Revised Fee Structure
The new Act also proposes modifications to the gambling industry’s fee structure to align with the increasing costs associated with regulation. This includes raising fees for registration and licensing, encompassing administrative expenses such as background checks, compliance monitoring, and enforcement activities.
Gaming facilities and charitable gaming events will now have fees linked to their revenue rather than a flat rate, allowing organizations with lower earnings to pay reduced fees. Additional fee categories will be introduced to PlayNow.com, reflecting its recent expansion.