After eight years of precarious existence, Parisian gaming clubs may be about to turn the page on experimentation. The Senate has just approved a historic amendment that could transform these entertainment venues into permanent institutions in the Parisian landscape. But the final decision still rests with the National Assembly.
The long journey from experiment to institution
The history of Parisian gaming clubs has been anything but smooth sailing. In February 2017, the government launched a unique experimental scheme: authorising clubs to offer table games while formally excluding roulette and electronic machines. The aim? To replace formerly opaque private establishments with a legal, controlled and transparent offering. At the time, the aim was to test the model and observe its impact on public order, economic regulation and the fight against illegal networks. The programme was temporary and was supposed to last a few years.
However, the years passed, and the extensions followed one after another. The scheme was due to end last year, but it was renewed by the previous government, with a three-year extension granted in 2024. This transitional model had become the norm… until the change of government in September, with the appointment of Sébastien Lecornu as Prime Minister.
It is in this context that the Senate has just taken a major step forward: approving an amendment that would put a definitive end to the experimental status of these clubs. This is a turning point that many have been waiting for.
An amendment to end instability
On 24 November, senators voted in favour of a legislative provision that was simple in its wording but far-reaching in its consequences: to make Parisian gaming clubs a permanent feature of the capital’s landscape.
For elected officials, the need was obvious. They point out that the last extension, poorly synchronised with the political calendar, had led to the abrupt closure of several establishments at the beginning of 2025. These sudden suspensions had plunged the sector into uncertainty and caused hardship for hundreds of employees.
“This measure will provide a clear and sustainable framework for a model that has proven its worth both in terms of public order and economic regulation. The pilot programme for gaming clubs has demonstrated its effectiveness by offering a legal and regulated alternative to illegal gambling establishments, while ensuring the transparency, traceability and integrity of financial transactions. It has made gambling in Paris safer within a framework that is strictly controlled by the administrative authorities, thereby contributing to the fight against money laundering and fraud,” explains the Senate.
The upper house even emphasises the security impact of this model. According to the Senate, the experimental system has made gambling safer in Paris, thanks in particular to increased monitoring by the administrative authorities and a strict arsenal of measures against fraud and money laundering.
But despite this senatorial agreement, the battle is not yet won: the final decision rests with the National Assembly, which will have to ratify the amendment in the next budget.
Economic impact
Beyond regulatory issues, gaming clubs have also carved out an economic reality that is difficult to ignore. Their activity generates approximately €120 million in revenue each year. Of this amount, €40 million goes directly to the State in the form of contributions, and €10 million goes to the City of Paris.
In a context where every euro of public revenue counts, these figures carry significant weight. The Senate recognises this, citing the significant economic boost provided by the sector. The clubs have also created and maintained several hundred jobs, both directly and indirectly: croupiers, security guards, service staff, maintenance, logistics, etc.
It is worth noting that this activity has never led to any distortion of competition with physical casinos elsewhere in France. The rules of the game remain strict. Clubs can only operate within the Parisian boundaries and must comply with the initial pilot’s requirements: no electronic games, no slot machines, geographical restrictions and increased surveillance.
A decision welcomed by the sector
Unsurprisingly, the announcement of the Senate vote was met with widespread relief among gaming professionals. The Casinos de France association, which represents the country’s land-based casinos, welcomed this long-awaited step forward.
In a statement, it said:
“This long-awaited step forward finally provides a clear legal framework, giving visibility to a model that has proven itself time and again. Parisian gaming clubs have demonstrated their effectiveness. They offer a legal, regulated and transparent alternative to the old gaming clubs, applying demanding standards in terms of control, integrity, prevention of excessive gambling and the fight against money laundering. We hope that these advances will be fully confirmed in the final version of the finance bill and reaffirm our commitment to working alongside the public authorities to ensure a legal, responsible gaming sector that serves the public interest.”
The group points out that contemporary gaming clubs are worthy representatives of a reformed sector, subject to strict requirements and with a mission: to provide a legal, transparent and secure alternative to the former clandestine gaming rooms.
Casinos de France now hopes that the National Assembly will confirm the Senate’s decision in the final version of the budget. The association promises to continue working alongside the public authorities to consolidate a model of responsible gaming that serves the public interest.