2013 Bahamian gambling referendum

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 in 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	%
For	32,533	39.29
Against	50,270	60.71
Invalid/blank votes		–
Total	82,803	100
Source: Bahamas Local

Do you support the establishment of a National Lottery?[4]

Choice	Votes	%
For	32,850	40.44
Against	48,389	59.56
Invalid/blank votes		–
Total	81,239	100
Source: Bahamas Local

References

1. 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. 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