Gaming and Lotteries Bill Paused for Revisions

Belize’s gambling laws are getting a reality check. The Senate has decided to hold off on passing a new gaming bill after concerns that it doesn’t go far enough to protect communities, especially after News Five’s investigation into Caribi Bleu Casino in San Pedro.

The Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill 2025 was designed to repeal and consolidate existing gambling laws in Belize. But after a lively debate in the Senate, lawmakers agreed the legislation needs more work to tackle emerging challenges in the industry.

Church Senator Louis Wade said the bill currently leaves too much power in the hands of officials without public input. “I believe this legislation is incomplete. Number one, not just consultation as it relates to the bill itself, but consultations as it relates to who should and should not get a licence,” he said.

He called for the law to create “no gambling zones” and for communities to have a legal say in whether gambling businesses can operate nearby.

Wade also raised concerns about minors being involved in gambling activities under certain provisions of the bill.

“This bill does not serve the good of the Belizean people to cover the issues of the last fifteen years that we know exist, including the issues such as the Rima Ray which is currently before us,” Wade said.

News 5’s investigation into Caribi Bleu exposed how Ray operated an unauthorised ATM dispensing U.S. currency and held an unusually large number of golf cart permits. The investigation led to local probing by the Central Bank and Financial Intelligence Unit and the eventual revocation of Caribi Bleu’s licence.

Ray was later arrested in the United States after police found over $300,000 in cash in his Tesla. He now faces fraud and illegal gambling charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act.

Wade argues it shows the urgent need for public accountability. “If a person wants to have a gambling house, a casino, a gaming shop, in a particular community… the public needs to be involved and written into this legislation,” he said.

The bill will now undergo further review before returning to the Senate.