Mexican lawmaker seeks to implement a new federal gaming and lotteries act

Mexican Deputy Ricardo Mejía has presented a bill before the Chamber of Deputies proposing a new Federal Gaming and Lotteries Act — to replace the current legislation in force since 1947 — with the goal of improving player safety and combating gambling addiction.

According to local media reports, the proposal seeks to integrate casino and online betting platforms into a solid legal framework that guarantees the rights of participants, operators, and license holders, while strengthening tax collection and social protection.

Mejía, a legislator from Coahuila, explained that the new law places people at the center, prioritizing player protection and the responsible regulation of gaming activity. He added that under this new framework, all gaming and lottery activities must be carried out in a “responsible, safe, and transparent” manner, safeguarding the fundamental rights of participants, licensees, and operators.

The initiative also calls for the creation of the National Institute of Gaming and Lotteries, a decentralized authority under the Ministry of the Interior (Segob), which would assume responsibility for regulation, inspection, and enforcement, eliminating discretion and strengthening transparency across the sector.

Among the main changes, the bill proposes replacing all current permits, limiting each license to a single establishment, and ensuring fair conditions for new applicants, thereby promoting a competitive and well-regulated market.

It also introduces a system to combat illegal gambling, granting authorities the power to close establishments, impose fines of up to 200,000 minimum wages, and ensure effective compliance with the law.

Focus on responsible gambling

The new legislation treats gambling addiction as a public health issue, with preventive measures, a minimum gambling age of 21, and voluntary self-exclusion programs for at-risk participants. It also promotes education on responsible gambling, setting betting limits based on players’ financial capacity, and preventing entertainment from turning into addiction or harm to health.

In line with this, the proposal includes information controls, bans ATMs in gaming areas, and imposes obligations on license holders to ensure players are informed about their risks and rights.

“The bill establishes care programs for vulnerable groups, including minors, people with disabilities, or those exhibiting risky gambling behaviors, safeguarding their well-being and fundamental rights at all times,” Mejía stated.

Finally, he emphasized that the new Federal Gaming and Lotteries Act would harmonize Mexico’s regulations with international standards, protect consumers, ensure transparency and legal certainty, and allocate part of the tax revenue to health, culture, and sports initiatives for the benefit of the public.

According to the lawmaker, the proposal aims to promote “a modern, safe, and responsible industry,” fostering tourism and economic activity while reducing risks associated with illegal practices and related crimes.