Estonia's gambling tax blunder sparks legal battle after adviser's firing

The Riigikogu Chancellery has dismissed Piia Schultz, an adviser, over an error in the Gambling Tax Act and her remarks to a journalist. The decision has sparked controversy, with Schultz announcing plans to challenge her dismissal in court. Officials and lawmakers are now debating the boundaries of civil servants' roles in legislation and media communication.

The error in the Gambling Tax Act is expected to cost €4 million in lost tax revenue by 2026. Despite internal discussions and a review of the draft law, the Chancellery has taken no concrete legal or organisational steps to correct it before the 24 March 2026 deadline.

Antero Habicht, Director General of the Riigikogu Chancellery, confirmed Schultz's dismissal. He cited both the legislative mistake and her public comments as reasons for the action. Meanwhile, Riigikogu President Lauri Hussar advised against removing Schultz, arguing that the penalty was too severe.

Külli Taro, a senior official, clarified that civil servants have the right to engage with the press. She explained that their role includes helping the public understand how state institutions work. Taro also pointed out that lawmakers, not advisers, bear ultimate responsibility for passing legislation. She added that the Chancellery's job is to ensure draft laws are properly prepared.

Taro noted that Schultz had over a week to review the bill before the final vote. She suggested that any decision on the dismissal should be left to the courts rather than resolved internally.

Schultz's case has raised questions about accountability in lawmaking and the limits of press communication for officials. The dispute will now move to court, where the legality of her dismissal will be examined. No fixes for the tax error have yet been implemented, leaving the financial impact unresolved.