The Order in Council (O.C.) 643-2025 amends the Bingo Rules under the Act respecting lotteries and amusement machines (chapter L-6). The regulation is designed to update the conditions governing media bingo broadcasts, particularly those involving community and commercial media outlets. It follows the legal framework laid out in section 20 of the Act, which grants the Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux the authority to establish rules for the issuance of prescribed licences and to impose restrictions or conditions on their use, excluding video lotteries and State-run casinos.

A key aspect of the regulation involves the operation and broadcasting of media bingo, which is an increasingly popular form of bingo played over radio or television. Under the amended rules, media bingo must be broadcast by community radio, television, or community channels. However, the regulation allows for exceptions, permitting media bingo to be broadcast or simulcast by commercial radio or television stations. This exception can be granted if the organization applying for or holding a media bingo license can demonstrate “serious grounds” for why community media options are not viable in their territory. Serious grounds may include the lack of community radio or television stations in the area or insufficient broadcast coverage by these outlets. In such cases, the organization may apply for a modification to their existing license or seek approval for a new one to allow for commercial media broadcasting.

Furthermore, the board overseeing the regulation may request that organizations submit relevant documentation or evidence proving the existence of these serious grounds. This provision ensures that the decision to allow commercial broadcasting is based on clear and justifiable reasons, rather than arbitrary exceptions.

The amendment primarily addresses the evolving nature of bingo broadcasting in Quebec, recognizing the role of both community and commercial media in reaching broader audiences. By allowing commercial broadcasters to participate under specific circumstances, the regulation seeks to maintain the integrity of media bingo while providing flexibility to organizations facing logistical challenges in broadcasting through community media.

Quebec (643/2025) May 28, 2025
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and do not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.