In a significant move to protect underage individuals from the harms of unregulated gambling, the Chamber of Deputies of the Dominican Republic has greenlit a comprehensive new bill that enforces sweeping stricter controls across all forms of betting and gambling activity, with a particular focus on the fast-growing online gambling sector.
The centerpiece of the new regulatory framework is Article 82, a mandate that upends the current lax age verification system for digital gambling platforms. For years, online operators have allowed users to start depositing funds and placing bets based solely on a self-declaration that the user is of legal age. Under the new rule, operators will be legally required to cross-check every user’s identity and age directly against the official database managed by the Central Electoral Board (known locally as JCE) before granting access to any gambling services.
The bill does not limit strengthened protections to the digital space. It also puts in place new safeguards for physical gambling locations and public commercial spaces across the country. Article 27 codifies a total ban on entry for anyone under the age of 18 to all licensed gambling establishments, while Article 28 mandates that on-site operators must check official government-issued identification for every visitor at the point of entry. Additionally, the legislation bans the placement of slot machines in any minor-accessible venue that sells food or beverages, ranging from local neighborhood corner stores to family-focused entertainment centers.
New advertising rules add another layer of protection for young people. Article 37 prohibits any gambling marketing campaign that targets minors, as well as any advertisements that use imagery, language or storytelling crafted specifically to appeal to underage audiences.
One of the most impactful provisions of the bill is the strict penalty for non-compliance. Unlike the current regime that relies primarily on financial fines for violations, Article 44 establishes that any operator that fails to put in place effective controls to block minor participation can face permanent cancellation or full revocation of their operating license. This means regulators have the authority to shut down non-compliant gambling operations entirely, sending a strong signal about the government’s commitment to enforcing minor protection standards.