Puerto Rico just flipped the switch on a major crackdown: starting July 1, all on‑the‑road slot machines must be fully licensed and inspected or they’re out of the game. The Puerto Rico Gaming Commission confirmed this sweep under Regulation No. 9647, officially ringing in a new era of accountability for operators
What’s going down:
The Gaming Commission reports 100% of previously‑licensed route operators have already filed their license applications. Next up? The Commission’s Investigation & Regulation Unit will roll out inspections, taking aim at any rogue machines still running offline.
According to executive director Juan Carlos Santaella Marchán, this is “a historic leap in formalizing economic activity… transforming informal sectors into regulated engines of development.”
Key details to know:
- All roadside slot units now require a license, a machine tag, and real‑time linkage to operators’ back‑end systems.
- A 25,000‑license cap applies in the first two years, with priority given to existing legal operators.
- Funding from licensing fees is earmarked for Puerto Rico’s Police Retirement Trust
Why it matters to gamers and suppliers
This sets up a clean, legit gaming environment—meaning better traceability, more investment in compliant gear, and serious opportunities for tech providers who offer connected systems. It also sends a clear message: illegal machines won’t fly, and compliance isn't optional.
