In Costa Rica, a legislative proposal aimed at modernizing gambling regulations and addressing illegal online gambling has been introduced. On May 23, 2026, Esmeralda Britton, Vice President of the Legislative Assembly, presented Bill No. 25.600 titled “Strengthening and Modernization of the Social Protection Board (JPS).” The bill seeks to amend the existing framework to combat illegal gaming, which dominates approximately 53% of the market, resulting in significant fiscal losses—estimated at nearly USD 300 million—that could otherwise support social and health initiatives. This legislative move is significant as it represents a concerted effort to enhance regulatory oversight and reduce the prevalence of unregulated gambling activities.
This proposal follows an earlier attempt to revise Costa Rica’s gambling laws. At the end of 2025, the Security and Narcotics Commission, with input from the Junta de Protección Social, developed Bill No. 25.057. This proposal aimed to introduce a licensing system for online and mobile gambling platforms while reinforcing state control over gambling operations. Despite the comprehensive plan, the commission rejected the bill at the start of 2026, citing concerns over the challenges posed by the rapid expansion of online gambling and persistent illegal operations.
The rejection of the previous bill has raised alarm among officials. Rosario Masís Pérez, a spokesperson for the JPS, highlighted the concerns regarding the absence of robust regulatory tools necessary to curb illegal gambling structures. She emphasized that the lack of legislation leaves room for illegal activities that not only evade taxation but also pose social risks by not adhering to protective standards, especially for vulnerable groups.
The introduction of Bill No. 25.600 revives key issues previously discussed. Britton stressed the urgency of safeguarding resources intended for social programs, stating that the legislation is a crucial step toward preventing exploitation by illegal operators. She underscored the importance of modernizing regulations to protect the public, particularly minors and other vulnerable populations, through advanced technology.
Key to the bill’s framework is the integration of technology in regulatory practices. The proposal includes deploying real-time monitoring systems, developing algorithms to detect manipulations, and conducting software audits to bolster enforcement capabilities. Additionally, the bill aims to strengthen anti-money laundering measures by fostering collaboration between the JPS and other financial authorities such as the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF), the Costa Rican Drug Institute (ICD), and the National Council for Supervision of the Financial System (CONASSIF).
Masís Pérez noted that without updated regulations, illegal platforms continue to operate unchecked, depriving the state of tax revenue and contributing to potential criminal financial activities. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a regulated environment where operators are accountable and contribute to the national economy.
Looking ahead, the success of this bill relies on gaining legislative support and overcoming potential logistical challenges in implementation. If enacted, it will require detailed planning to establish the necessary technological infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. Stakeholders will need to engage in dialogue to ensure that the measures are comprehensive and enforceable. The market response and adaptation will be critical in determining the effectiveness of these regulatory changes in combating illegal gambling and enhancing the legal market’s integrity.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
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