New gambling bill put forward in Costa Rica
Twelve deputies have signed Bill 25,057, which aims to equip the Junta de Protección Social (JPS), a social welfare organization that manages the lottery and other games of chance, with enhanced legal tools to regulate gambling and close loopholes that organized crime may exploit.
The bill proposes fines and prison sentences for those operating illegal gambling activities, prohibits the sale of unauthorized lotteries, and empowers the JPS to take legal action. At the same time, it promotes inter-institutional cooperation to dismantle illegal sales points and ensures that funds from legal gambling are directed toward social objectives rather than criminal enterprises.
The project establishes two types of sanctions for the unauthorized sale or marketing of printed or electronic lotteries, sports bets, video lotteries, and games of chance. Offenders will face fines ranging from five to ten base monthly salaries (approximately ¢402,000 to ¢2 million). At the same time individuals who exploit, manage, operate, or organize these activities for personal or others’ financial gain without proper authorization will face prison sentences of two to six years.
“This project seeks to close off the path to illegality, regulate the sector, and strengthen the Junta de Protección Social as a public institution serving the common good. Defending the legality of gambling is defending solidarity, equity, and the social impact that the JPS has upheld over its 180 years of history. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to the proper management of resources and support for social programs benefiting the most vulnerable populations,” said Esmeralda Britton González, president of the JPS.
Deputy Gilberth Jiménez from the National Liberation Party (PLN), who supports the project, explained the urgency of passing this legislation.
“The Junta de Protección Social is key to financing social aid and health programs. However, currently, over 50% of the market is in the hands of illegal products. This project not only combats this scourge but also protects citizens and ensures that resources reach those who need them most,” she said.
