Spain’s Supreme Court has ruled that regional autonomous communities cannot inspect or remove ONCE lottery terminals from bars and restaurants. The decision overturns a prohibition imposed by the Asturias regional government and clarifies that state-reserved lotteries like ONCE fall under national jurisdiction, regardless of whether a region has assumed gaming competencies.
The ruling provides immediate legal protection for ONCE terminals in hospitality venues across Spain. ONCE operates as a state-reserved lottery, distinct from regional gaming markets.
