Mexico Gambling Bill Targets Online Betting Risks

Mexico City Deputy Alberto Martinez Urincho presented a proposal on August 11, 2026, to change the Federal Law on Games and Sweepstakes.

The plan aims to address the growth of online betting and its possible effect on young people. It would also officially define gambling addiction as an addictive disorder linked to mental health.

Under the proposal, gambling companies and betting platforms would have to display health and risk warnings. Operators would also face stricter identity checks designed to stop minors from accessing their services.

Misleading gambling ads and marketing aimed at vulnerable people would be banned. The proposal would also block bets on political events, wars, natural disasters, humanitarian crises and other events that could harm human dignity. Martinez Urincho stated:

We are witnessing an exponential growth in gambling addiction in Mexico. This is not simply a matter of leisure or entertainment.

The lawmaker cited official data suggesting that between 4% and 8% of Mexican teenagers show problem or dependent gambling behaviour. He also referred to UNAM Global estimates that up to 3.9 million people in Mexico may have a gambling addiction.

Since the proposal concerns federal law, it must first pass through the Local Public Administration Commission and the Mexico City Congress. It could then be sent to Mexico’s federal Congress for further review.