Justiceface
Justiceface
Jun 02, 2026
Greece

Greece Introduces New Measures to Boost Disposable Income and Combat Illegal Gambling

On June 2, 2026, the Greek Ministry of National Economy and Finance announced a series of legislative measures aimed at enhancing citizens' disposable income, addressing private debt, improving housing conditions, and combating illegal gambling activities. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive bill titled "Pension Regulations for the Public Sector, Measures to Address the Energy Crisis and Enhance Citizens' Disposable Income, Salary and Tax Provisions, Regulations for the Extrajudicial Mechanism for Debt Settlement, Regulations for the Hellenic Gaming Commission and Improvement of the Framework for Games of Chance, Regulations for the Public Properties Company S.A., and Other Provisions."

Key Provisions of the Proposed Legislation

Enhancement of Disposable Income

The bill introduces measures designed to increase the disposable income of Greek citizens. While specific details are pending, the focus is on providing financial relief to households affected by the ongoing economic challenges.

Addressing Private Debt

To tackle the issue of private debt, the legislation proposes enhancements to the extrajudicial mechanism for debt settlement. This includes streamlining procedures and providing more accessible pathways for individuals and businesses to manage and resolve outstanding debts.

Housing Initiatives

The bill outlines initiatives aimed at improving housing conditions, though detailed provisions are yet to be disclosed. These measures are expected to address affordability and accessibility issues in the housing market.

Combating Illegal Gambling

A significant component of the legislation focuses on the prevention, detection, and suppression of illegal gambling activities. Key measures include:

  • Strengthening the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC): The bill proposes increasing the total number of organizational positions within the HGC from 80 to 110, enhancing its capacity to oversee and regulate the gaming industry.
  • Empowering the Gaming Inspectors Corps: Members of the Gaming Inspectors Corps will be granted the authority of special investigative officers, enabling them to conduct thorough investigations into criminal offenses related to gambling.
  • Immediate Sanctions: The legislation allows for the immediate sealing of establishments found to be conducting illegal gambling activities for up to one year. Additionally, municipalities will have the authority to revoke operating licenses of such establishments.
  • Strict Penalties: The bill introduces severe administrative and criminal penalties for violators, including imprisonment for those obstructing regulatory inspections.

Public Consultation and Next Steps

The proposed bill is open for public consultation until June 15, 2026. Stakeholders and citizens are encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions during this period. Following the consultation phase, the bill will undergo further revisions before being presented to the Greek Parliament for debate and potential enactment.

These legislative measures reflect the government's commitment to addressing pressing economic and social issues, aiming to improve the financial well-being of its citizens and ensure a fair and regulated gaming environment.