The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) presented an initiative in the Chamber of Deputies to apply chemical castration to those convicted of serious sexual offenses. The proposal aims to reduce recidivism through reversible hormonal treatments. It has been referred to the Justice Commission for review.
On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, PRI deputy Israel Betanzos introduced this initiative in the Chamber of Deputies. The proposal amends the Federal Penal Code by adding numeral 20 to article 24, a chapter 12 to title 2, and a new article 50 Ter. It includes non-surgical, reversible hormonal treatments without sequelae to inhibit sexual desire and prevent recidivism, accompanied by psychological care.
Betanzos stressed that it is not an isolated punishment but an integral approach to protection and justice. "The objective is to inhibit libido through a chemical, non-surgical treatment. It is reversible, leaves no sequelae, and must be accompanied by psychological attention," he specified during a press conference.
According to data from the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security System, in 2024 more than 65,000 rape complaints were registered in Mexico, with the highest rates in the State of Mexico, Chihuahua, Mexico City, and Nuevo León. The legislator recalled presenting a similar initiative in 2010 as a local deputy in the Mexico City Legislative Assembly. Such procedures are already applied in countries like the United States, Spain, Denmark, Germany, Russia, South Korea, and Italy.
The Secretariat of Health will define guidelines and medications within 120 days, with treatments lasting from six months to three years, administered exclusively by this agency. Addressing potential criticism from human rights organizations, Betanzos assured there are no side effects and the aim is rehabilitation, not mutilation. "I understand there will be voices that oppose it, but what we seek is to protect the victims, not the criminals. It is a measure that can help reduce rates of abuse and sexual violence," he stated.
Regarding the death penalty, Betanzos advocated for a deep debate with experts, acknowledging Mexico's high violence levels. On viability, he called on all political forces, including Morena, to support it as a matter of humanity, not partisanship. "It is not a matter of colors, it is a matter of humanity. Morena and all parties must join if we really want to lower crime rates," he emphasized. He has already begun lobbying with coordinator Rubén Moreira and the Justice Commission to achieve consensus.