A social bingo game in Santutxu was interrupted by the Ertzaintza, leading to a debate in the Basque Parliament. A modification of the law is proposed to allow these activities, despite potential fines of up to 60,000 euros.

Pedro Jiménez, spokesperson for the Association of Bingos of Euskadi, argued that bingo in social centers constitutes "unfair competition" for gaming halls facing difficulties due to the rise of digital gaming. He noted that the primary user profile consists of retirees, who sustain "crisis-ridden" businesses.

Iluminada Rosa Raimundo, president of the Santutxu center, reminded lawmakers that banning social bingo would be "a mistake." She emphasized that these games are not just entertainment but also a gateway to other activities and a crucial meeting point for seniors, particularly for many women who attend after being widowed.

Luis Carlos Matías, president of the Las Cuatro Torres de Araba pensioners' association, also defended the social benefits of these activities, calling them a "greatness" for the elderly. "We need to stay active. Seniors go home only to sleep," he asserted.

According to a study by the Basque Observatory of Games, 63.1% of senior associations in Euskadi offer or have offered social bingo. Its prevalence varies by territory: 25% in Araba, 42% in Bizkaia, and 71.2% in Gipuzkoa.

The study indicates that nearly half of the centers hold social bingo once a week, with sessions lasting about two hours and averaging around 50 participants. In 80% of cases, it coexists with other activities. Small amounts of money are wagered (about twenty cents per card), which acts as a "motivation boost," as 76% of users admit they wouldn't participate without this small bet.

The Gizakia foundation, which works on addiction issues in Bizkaia, highlighted that individuals over 65 do not exhibit problematic gambling behaviors and that these activities positively impact cognitive stimulation, memory, and socialization.