Colombia Authorizes Pilot Programs to Reopen Casinos and Bingo Halls

As part of Colombia’s measures to combat the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, a Decree has been proposed, which allows, the operation of gambling halls of mayor districts, if they follow the pilot plan proposed.

The municipalities with low cases will be able to implement pilot plans and open doors to bingos and casinos following the measures stated in the decree published on July 28 by Ivan Duque, Colombia’s president.

The measures in these pilot plans relate to the yet to be approved biosecurity protocols issued by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, as well as the prohibition of alcoholic consumption in the establishments where the protocols are applied. The approval of this protocol will be mandatory.

The Decree states that “The mayors of municipalities and districts, in coordination with the Ministry of the Interior, may authorise the implementation of pilot plans in (i) bars and casinos to provide on-site service to the public -in person or at the table-, (ií) billiards, gambling and betting such as bingos and video game terminals, and (iii) sports events without crowding of spectators. Under no circumstances is the consumption of intoxicating beverages allowed in the places where the pilot plans are implemented.”

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And continues “The mayors of the municipalities and districts in coordination with the Ministry of the Interior, may authorise the implementation of pilot plans in (i) commercial establishments and premises that provide food service, to provide on-site service to the public – in person or at the table -, (ii) marinas and nautical activities, (ji) gyms, (iv) cinemas and theatres; (v) sports events without crowds of spectators, (vi) theme parks and zoos, (vii) bars and casinos to provide on-site public service – either in person or at the table – and, (viii) billiards, gambling and betting games such as bingo and video game terminals, and (ixi) aesthetics, swimming pools, spa, sauna and Turkish, provided that the biosecurity protocols issued by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection are complied with at all times for the development of these activities. Under no circumstances is the consumption of intoxicating beverages allowed in the places where the pilot plans are implemented.”