The executive director of the Gaming Commission spoke about the new powers to regulate the industry.
Puerto Rico.- The executive director of the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission, Juan Santaella Marchán, published a statement yesterday, Thursday, August 29, in which he provided details about the new powers acquired by the agency to regulate the gaming industry on the Island, equating the powers of its agents to those of the Police.
Santaella Marchán explained that the new law grants agents the ability to make arrests and handle situations previously reserved for the Police.
“The creation by law of a specialized body with public order powers promotes an environment of greater confidence for players, companies, and the industry,” highlighted Santaella Marchán in written statements.
Furthermore, he emphasized that the law seeks to ensure fair regulation of legal revenue for the benefit of the public budget and social contributions, such as contributions to the University of Puerto Rico and the Police retirement fund.
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The law amends Articles 1.3 and 2.2 of Law 81-2019, redefining the "gaming agent" and allowing them to seize equipment and audit documents in places where regulated gambling activities are conducted. The agents will receive training at the Police Academy to handle high-risk situations.
