HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania State Police are reminding businesses that operate so-called skill game machines that they must remove the devices ahead of an upcoming enforcement deadline.
The guidance follows a June 15 decision by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court that determined skill game devices are slot machines under the state’s Gaming Act. The court ruled that the devices qualify as slot machines regardless of whether skill, chance or a combination of both determines the outcome.
Under Pennsylvania law, slot machines may legally be operated only by licensed casinos and qualifying licensed truck stop establishments, using devices that have been inspected and approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
The State Police say businesses outside those licensed locations that continue to possess, operate or maintain the machines after the October 13 compliance deadline could face enforcement beginning October 14. Possible enforcement actions include seizure and forfeiture of the machines, associated equipment and money connected to their operation, as well as criminal charges when appropriate.
The machines are commonly found in taverns, restaurants, social clubs, convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, laundromats, pizza shops and other businesses.
State Police recommend that businesses currently hosting the machines contact the distributors or vendors that own them to arrange for their removal. The guidance also includes associated equipment such as ticket redemption terminals.
Simply turning off or unplugging a machine is not considered sufficient. Businesses whose vendors are unwilling to remove the equipment are encouraged to contact the State Police for assistance with removal and compliance.
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