Welcome to the New Mexico Gaming Control Board,

The New Mexico Gaming Control Board was established by statute in 1997 and funded during the 1998 legislative session. We began operations in June 1998 and are responsible for regulating legalized gaming at New Mexico’s licensed racetracks, veteran and fraternal organizations. We are also responsible for investigating and enforcing violations of the laws and regulations that prohibit illegal gambling activities in the state, and monitor New Mexico’s tribal gaming compacts through the appointment of a state gaming representative.

Gaming Control Board members are full time state officials who are appointed by Governor Bill Richardson with the advice and consent of the New Mexico State Senate. Current membership includes: David L. Norvell of Albuquerque, Chair; Commissioner Don E. Dutton of Ruidoso; and Commissioner Demesia Padilla. The three full time board members are joined by one ex-officio member, designated by statute as the Chair of the State Racing Commission and the Public Representative, James A. Peterson, of Albuquerque.

The Board’s licensing and certification process is rigorous, and designed to ensure that both the citizens of New Mexico as well as guests to our state can enjoy gaming in a fair and honest environment. During the licensing and certification process, our audit and law enforcement staff conduct thorough investigations of a business' background, as well as that of all individuals associated with the business. The results of the investigation are then presented to the Gaming Control Board which considers the applicant's suitability to conduct gaming operations in New Mexico.

While the measures employed during our application, compliance and enforcement processes are admittedly strenuous, only by qualifying and then carefully regulating the venues and people involved in the gambling industry can we protect the public’s interests. We take our regulation of New Mexico's gambling activities very seriously and violations of the Board's rules or of the New Mexico Gaming Control Act can result in severe administrative sanctions and criminal prosecution.

Thank you for your interest in New Mexico gaming and should you need additional information or assistance, please contact us at your convenience.

John Monforte
Executive Director