In Mexico, the Federal Law on Games and Sweepstakes establishes some prohibitions.
In recent days, the case of the arrest of a group of young people who played ‘UNO’ in the street went viral. The police indicated that they would arrest them because it was a game of chance, however, a neighbor in the area intervened arguing that they were not breaking the law. After a discussion with the police officers, they released the young people.
The case generated hundreds of comments, most of them in defense of young people, as they claimed that, although ‘UNO’ is a game of chance, it is also considered a board game suitable for all ages, so that could not fall into the category of “prohibited games” established by law.
What are the “prohibited games” according to the Law in Mexico?
The Federal Law on Games and Sweepstakes indicates that games of chance and betting are prohibited throughout the national territory.
Games of chance are characterized by being random, the player has no control over the result, and the probability of winning is determined by luck.
Thus, among the games that are prohibited are:
Lotteries
Bingo
Raffles
Slot machines
Cards or cards (poker, 21, wink, donkey, among others)
Dice games (cup, gaiter, among others)
“Volados“: ‘Eagle or Sun’
Hopscotch with coins
Is playing cards on the street illegal?
According to Article 2 of the aforementioned Law, only chess is allowed; Chinese ladies and the like; domino; dice; bowling; bowling; billiards; ball games in all forms and denominations; races of people, vehicles, animals, and, in general, all kinds of sports.
Thus, it is determined that playing cards on the streets is illegal, especially if you bet while doing so or for profit. It should be noted that, although this is the general law in Mexico, each entity can apply its sanctions and restrictions.
Why can’t you play cards on the street?
The prohibition of games of chance and betting seeks to ensure that there are regulatory institutions that control the organization of these events, because, as there is money involved, it can incite lawsuits or fights due to disagreements or scams. Furthermore, since it is “a simple way” to obtain money, it can cause gambling addiction, that is, an addiction to betting.
What is the fine for playing cards on the street?
In Mexico, the fine for playing cards and any of the aforementioned games, as well as betting, without authorization is a prison sentence of one month to two years and a fine of five to 100 thousand pesos.
Source: Telediario
Mexico Daily Post
