Gambling changes ahead in Mexico

A leading political party in Mexico, the PRI, is planning to introduce gambling reform measures in the next legislative season, which kicks off on September 1 this year…. and these could impact online gambling operators.

The proposal emulates New Jersey’s new online gambling laws in that it requires licensing to be restricted to operators who hold a licence for a land-based gaming facility.

The G3 Newswire agency reveals that 400 gambling centres currently operate in the country, making gambling a key agenda among political parties and resulting in the PRI preparing legislation after talks with members of Mexico’s Interior Ministry (SEGOB).

PRI Senator Verónica Martínez Espinosa says that Mexico’s gambling law is in need of reform. In 2005 the government amended the old 1947 act to allow for bingo, slot parlours and sports betting and The Secretary of Government in Mexico’s Interior Ministry was given the responsibility for the granting of licences, she explained.

Martínez Espinosa says the new legislation is necessary in order to repeal the old act and that a new regulatory regime is needed to more accurately reflect Mexico’s modern gaming landscape, although she applauded SEGOB’s efforts to more closely scrutinise the licensing process.

The PRI proposal includes measures against underage, problem gambling and money laundering and proposes the creation of a National Gaming Commission with responsibility for licensing, regulation and enforcement, along with providing a channel for consumer complaints.

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