Mexico’s Secretariat of the Interior (SEGOB) has completed its internal review of a proposed reform to the country’s Federal Gaming and Sweepstakes Law, with the initiative now set to be reviewed by the Security Cabinet before potentially moving forward to Congress.
The development was announced by SEGOB Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez during the Mexican government’s press conference on September 3. The proposed reform is intended to update the country’s gambling framework and strengthen measures against money laundering and tax fraud in casinos and betting venues.
Rordíguez stated:
“Acting on the President’s instructions, we are conducting a review, which is nearing completion, of the various government agencies that may have some involvement with these types of establishments, such as casinos, betting venues, and entertainment centers.”
Alongside the proposed legislative changes, SEGOB has increased criticism of the gambling sector, with Rodríguez sharing that locations linked to alleged money laundering and tax fraud have been subject to closures and sanctions carried out in coordination with Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office (FGR) and Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF).
The secretary also called on operators to meet their tax obligations and respect workers’ labor rights. She warned casino and betting businesses against attempting to bribe government personnel during inspections and said that operators should deal directly with SEGOB rather than through representatives or intermediaries.
To improve transparency during inspections, Rodríguez proposed that both inspectors and operators record the procedures on video. The measure is intended to ensure that both sides have evidence of what takes place during an inspection and reduce the possibility of irregularities.
The proposal will now be considered by the Security Cabinet. If it receives approval, the reform could then advance through the formal legislative process and eventually reach Congress.
