Mexico Supreme Court invalidates Veracruz official advertising law

The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) has invalidated Veracruz's official advertising law, ruling that the legislation unconstitutionally encroached upon federal jurisdictions. The law, which was approved in 2021 and promulgated by then-governor Cuitláhuac García, established regulations for contracting media outlets using public funds for government propaganda.

Key provisions of the law included the creation of a state registry of media outlets, which would exclude any organization not registered from receiving government contracts. The court's decision, supported by eight ministers, determined that the state legislature exceeded its authority by attempting to regulate government propaganda and public spending in areas reserved for the federal government.

The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) had previously challenged the law, citing potential risks to freedom of expression, transparency, and legal certainty. Civil organizations had also warned that the registry system could allow for discretionary distribution of public resources. While the Veracruz law has been struck down, a similar federal law remains under review by the Supreme Court.