French Senate Greenlights the Legalisation of the Capital’s Gaming Clubs

On November 24th, France held the 1st reading of its 2026 budget bill. Among the proposed amendments outlined in the document was a provision granting permanent lawful status to Parisian gambling clubs, allowing them to continue operating legally as authorised venues under state oversight.

Key Nuances of the Initiative

Prior to the budget discussion, the city’s RMG facilities functioned in a pilot phase for approximately 8 years. The proposal to formalise their status was tabled by members of the SER parliamentary group.

Among the main proponents of the amendment were:

• Rémi Féraud;
• Colombe Brossel;
• Marie-Pierre de La Gontrie.

For the draft law to be enacted, it must secure full approval from the Senate and undergo a 2nd reading in the Assemblée Nationale, France’s lower chamber. The initiative's backers argue that the trial period has already demonstrated its effectiveness and that authorised establishments offer a relevant, legitimate alternative to illicit venues.

Lawmakers share a unified stance: the extended pilot programme has proved that regulated entertainment facilities safeguard customers and guarantee operational transparency. Moreover, France has gained a reliable tool for tracking financial streams within this sector.

Parliamentarians estimate that the capital’s real‑money gambling halls produce around €120 million in yearly revenue. Of this sum, €40 million is channelled into the national treasury, while an additional €10 million is allocated to priority projects in Paris.

Establishing a permanent legal status for this segment is expected to deliver several benefits:

• a solid foundation for transparent regulation;
• effective oversight and maintenance of public order;
• stable employment opportunities for hundreds of workers.

For the country’s government, attracting licensed, internationally recognised operators is a strategic priority. Given the ongoing risks of fraud and money laundering, upholding the time-tested supervisory model remains one of the most reliable methods to guarantee market transparency. This approach enjoys strong endorsement from Amélie de Montchalin, France’s Minister of Public Accounts.

From Past to Present: Defining Stages

Paris’ gambling clubs 1st gained legal recognition in 2017, through Law No. 2017-257, which authorised them under a temporary, tightly regulated pilot scheme that excluded land-based slot machines and e-games.

Originally intended to run for 3 years, the trial programme was later extended twice: 1st until the close of 2022, and then through 2024. These adjustments stemmed from administrative delays and pandemic-related disruptions, which hindered a comprehensive assessment of the results. Further complications emerged in early 2025 (January–March), when a political deadlock concerning budget approval led to the temporary suspension of all club operations.

The late-November vote was intended to:

• minimise legal ambiguity;
• establish a steady environment for investment;
• ensure smooth operations for businesses and employees alike.

Industry representatives enthusiastically supported the initiative. A local trade organisation, Casinos de France, observed that legalising gaming clubs in Paris directly addresses public demand for a secure, transparent, and economically resilient entertainment environment.

Long-Term Outlook for the Sphere

Should the lower chamber approve the bill and enshrine it into law, this decision would mark a significant milestone for France’s real-money amusement sector. This step is expected to draw the interest of international investors seeking sustainable and dependable markets, while allowing domestic and regional operators to retain their competitive edge.

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