Gaming revenue nears $12M, new funds set for towns
The Puerto Rico Gaming Commission said revenue from the regulated gaming machine industry has surpassed $8.5 million, which the agency called a “historic milestone” for the sector.
The figure reflects collections from licenses and machine operations under the law that gave the agency oversight authority, the commission said.
“We recognize the historic moment this industry is experiencing. After hard work by the Commission team, we began the second phase of collections for the operation of gaming machines on Sept. 10; the deadline was Sept. 15,” said Juan Carlos Santaella-Marchán, the commission’s executive director.
By law, the first $12 million collected from licensing fees and operations goes entirely to the General Fund. Once that benchmark is met, revenue will be distributed 55% to the Puerto Rico Police Retirement Trust, 40% to municipalities and 5% to cover the commission’s operating costs.
“We’re very close to reaching $12 million, which will allow us to begin injecting the Police Retirement Fund,” Santaella-Marchán said.
The commission said most operators have complied with fiscal responsibilities, though Santaella-Marchán warned that sanctions — including fines, license revocations and other penalties — await those who do not.
“Those who are not complying with their fiscal obligations should know that the Commission will spare no effort in investing resources to enforce them,” he said.
To strengthen enforcement, the commission has partnered with the Puerto Rico Police and Treasury Department on a plan to expand inspections across the island. Officials said the effort is aimed at ensuring establishments meet their obligations and that funds reach their designated beneficiaries.
Santaella-Marchán also urged the public to participate in oversight.
“We encourage citizens to collaborate confidentially through our website, reporting businesses in violation. This cooperation is vital to expedite the process and ensure that our police retirement funds reach their destination as quickly as possible,” he said.
The growing revenue from gaming machines is not only boosting the General Fund but is also on track to provide relief to the Police Retirement Trust once the $12 million threshold is met, officials said.
For municipalities, the revenue-sharing provision promises a new stream of funds to support local services and community programs. The commission will retain a share to cover operating expenses, allowing it to continue regulatory and enforcement work.
