Dominican Republic Advances Self-Exclusion Registry for Gambling Players, with New Operator Obligations

The Dominican Republic is moving to update gambling rules that date back to 1964, and the part PSPs and operators will care about is straightforward: a National Self-Exclusion Registry, mandatory player checks, and tighter limits on gambling advertising. The bill also sets aside 10% of fines for prevention and treatment of problem gambling.

1. Deputy Rogelio Alfonso Genao, who chairs the Chamber of Deputies committee that reviewed the bill, said the proposal would modernize a framework that does not adequately cover digital platforms or responsible gambling policy. The legislation still has to go back through Congress after lapsing in the previous session.
2. The centerpiece is the Registro Nacional de Autoexclusión (National Self-Exclusion Registry), set out in article 38 and to be administered by the Dirección General de Juegos de Azar. Registration would be free, available in person or electronically, and anyone who opts in must remain on the registry for at least six months.
3. During that six-month period, operators would have to check the registry before allowing access to their venues, opening accounts, or paying winnings to self-excluded players. They would also be barred from sending them gambling-related advertising, promotions, or bonuses. In other words, the burden sits on the operator, not the customer service desk after the fact.
4. The bill also creates funding for prevention, care, and treatment of pathological gambling. Under article 170, 10% of the funds collected through fines under the legislation would be directed to these programs, in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance.
5. On the marketing side, gambling ads, tickets, counters, and websites would have to display the warning: “Jugar Puede Provocar Adicción y Afectar la Salud”, together with the hotline number. The proposal also includes a free, permanent telephone line staffed by mental health professionals and educational campaigns on gambling risks.