FAMPA Castelló Penyagolosa has voiced “maximum concern” after the Valencian regional government removed the 850-meter minimum distance previously required between betting shops and educational centers, paving the way for the renewal of 21 gaming hall licenses this week.
FAMPA is Mexico’s Federation of Parents' Associations, an organized body representing parents in the education system to support school projects, promote student welfare and foster communication between families and school authorities.
The reform of the regional gambling law eliminates the buffer zone that had been designed to limit the proximity of betting venues to schools. According to the federation, the previous restriction aimed to protect children and adolescents from exposure to gambling environments.
Vicente Gumbau, President of FAMPA Castelló Penyagolosa, said the organization is calling for the reinstatement of the former distance requirement or even “the direct closure of these spaces,” particularly along school routes and in youth leisure areas.
He warned that betting venues, much like social media platforms, “invite you to enter,” increasing risks such as gambling addiction among minors.
The federation described the reform as a political decision with direct consequences for educational environments.
It also noted that no meeting has yet taken place with the regional Ministry of Education, Culture and Universities, despite a formal request. “We have requested a meeting but have not yet been summoned,” Gumbau said.
While the group has not announced street protests, it indicated that its next board meeting will assess the situation and consider possible awareness campaigns focused on informing families and communities about the risks associated with gambling exposure near schools.
Mexican authorities recently shut down an illegal casino in Coahuila
