The Senate approved an increase in taxes paid by casinos operating in the Dominican Republic. The bill, which will now pass to the Executive Branch for its conversion into law, establishes a single tax on operations of casinos, based on geographic location and number of gambling tables. The funds will be used for health, sport and educational projects. The bill was approved on Monday, together with the passing of the National Budget bill. The new tax is expected to generate some RD$20 million more for the government tax bureau, bringing the total taxes generated by casinos to RD$52 million. According to the law, casinos operating in Santo Domingo and urban zones, with a volume of casino gambling operations between 31 and 60 tables, will pay RD$16,000 per table. Those with 16-30 tables will pay RD$14,000 per table. Casinos with less than 15 tables will pay RD$12,000 per table. Casinos located in the beach areas of Juan Dolio, Boca Chica, Punta Cana, and further east will pay RD$8,000 per table. Those located in the north, in Puerto Plata and Rio San Juan, will pay RD$6,000.
