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 %
For32,53339.29
Against50,27060.71
Invalid/blank votes –
Total82,803100
Source: Bahamas Local
Do you support the establishment of a National Lottery?[4]
Choice Votes %
For32,85040.44
Against48,38959.56
Invalid/blank votes –
Total81,239100
Source: Bahamas Local

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Bahamas prepares two-part referendum that seeks to legalize gambling The Washington Post, 3 January 2013
  2. ↑ Voters in Bahamas Reject Gambling Referendum ABC News, 28 January 2013
  3. ↑ A Charter for Governance Progressive Liberal Party
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 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