The cabinet of the Japanese government has agreed a basic plan to counter problem gambling.
As reported by The Nikkei, research into limiting entrance to government-managed gambling venues such as horseracing and race tracks and pachinko parlors using facial recognition has been requested, as has the removal of ATMs from these facilities. A purchase cap will be placed on internet gambling where horse racing and other wagers are placed online.
The Problem Gambling Basic Countermeasure Act, which was enacted in October, required these strategies be implemented.
The 47 prefectures of Japan will now establish their own plans according to regional circumstances using this plan as a basis.
“It is important that we start to roll out these measures to establish a system of comprehensive cooperation and enhanced support for affected families,” said Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga on Friday.
The government’s plan also covers the establishment of new guidelines relating to advertising. This will include the size of addiction warnings and the length of TV commercials.
It has further been confirmed that a center for consultation and treatment will be established in all prefectures to develop a scheme for treating addiction. These plans are a forerunner to the development of integrated resort facilities in Japan.
