The parliamentary group of the PRI presented an initiative to modify the Penal Code of the state in light of the growing problem of usury and extortion by illegal lenders, commonly known as 'montadeudas'. The proposal, presented by Deputy Alejandro Arias Ávila, aims to classify as a crime the investments or reinvestments intended for easy loans outside the formal financial system.
"These criminal groups take advantage of the vulnerability of low-income individuals, offering them quick and easy loans, but with exorbitant interest rates and abusive conditions," pointed out Deputy Arias Ávila, highlighting that the consequences lead to victims being subjected to threats, violence, and extortion when they are unable to meet payments, generating an atmosphere of insecurity and fear.
The initiative emphasizes that these activities represent a serious problem for society, as they promote impunity by operating outside the law, undermine the formal financial system by unfairly competing with regulated financial institutions, and generate violence and extortion, subjecting victims of usury to threats and other crimes.
The proposed reform to the Penal Code includes classifying the irregular financial operations of the 'montadeudas' as a crime, establishing harsher penalties for those engaged in this activity, and facilitating the investigation and prosecution of these crimes. The initiative has been referred to the Justice Commission for study and review.
