In a potentially game-changing bold move, Mexican authorities are exploring the idea of implementing a complete ban on casino slot machines. However, any such move will depend on a thorough review & revision of the existing regulations governing the industry. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador recently initiated new legislation by that proposes the prohibition of all slot machines within the boundaries of Mexican casinos. This development signals a notable shift in the country’s approach to gambling and highlights its commitment to regulating the gaming sector more rigorously.

As officials are weighing the pros and cons of a complete ban on slots, the fate of such machines in the country’s casinos remains hanging in the balance. In fact, it has become a topic of great intrigue and debate in the gaming circles of the country.

In a bid to give a new shape to the gaming landscape, the proposed reform aims to eliminate all slot machines from Mexican casinos that were originally granted legal status during the tenure of former President Felipe Calderón. In 2016, this reform received unanimous endorsement from the country’s apex court, which emphasized its significance.

Just around a week ago, the Ministry of the Interior started the reform process by introducing a draft amendment to the Regulations of the Federal Law on Games & Sweepstakes (RFLGS). The proposed alteration leaves no room for ambiguity, as it explicitly targets “machines for number or symbol draws,” which clearly includes slot machines.

The government’s reasoning hinges on the assertion that the current RFLGS doesn’t grant endorsement for the use of slot machines, forming the base of this reform initiative. In its current form, the law sanctions only specific games, such as dominoes, bowling, billiards, chess, checkers, dice and raffles. It is worth noting here that this legislation hasn’t been revised by any previous government since 1947.

In case the reform successfully passes, it won’t be applied retroactively. In practical terms, it means that the 444 casinos that are currently operating across Mexico can continue to offer slot machines, but only for the remaining duration of their existing licenses. There are also additional 408 casino permits that are currently not operational. If these operators choose to activate their establishments under the new reform, they will not be allowed to operate slot machines.

Anyway, this reform holds the promises of triggering a profound transformation in the dynamic landscape of the Mexican gaming industry.