Politics
Opposition MP Criticizes Government Rejection of New Entertainment Venue Bill
A People's Party MP has criticized the government for blocking a proposed update to the 60-year-old Entertainment Venue Act, citing outdated regulations and alleged corruption.
On September 23, 2026, Phantila Nuamjerm, a People's Party MP for Bangkok, held a press conference at the Parliament to protest the government's decision to reject a proposed amendment to the Entertainment Venue Act. The MP argued that the current law, which has been in effect for 60 years, is obsolete and fails to reflect modern business realities, particularly regarding alcohol sales and nightlife operations.
Phantila highlighted that while some areas in Bangkok and other tourist zones are permitted to operate past midnight, the legal framework remains fragmented across multiple agencies. The proposed bill aimed to modernize definitions and decentralize authority to local governments, who are better positioned to manage area-specific issues. However, because the bill was classified as a financial measure, it required the Prime Minister's endorsement to proceed. The Prime Minister declined to endorse the draft, effectively blocking its consideration.
During the briefing, the MP also alleged that the Department of Provincial Administration has been collecting bribes in tourist areas, specifically mentioning the Governor of Phuket. For residents and travelers, this political impasse underscores the ongoing uncertainty regarding nightlife regulations and the potential for inconsistent enforcement. It remains to be confirmed whether the government intends to introduce its own version of the bill or if the current regulatory framework will face further legal challenges.