Pennsylvania State Police are warning businesses that operate skill game machines to have the devices removed by October 13 or potentially face criminal charges and seizure of the machines beginning the following day.
The warning follows a June 15 ruling by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania that classified so-called skill games as slot machines under the state’s Gaming Act.
According to guidance issued by state police, owning, operating or maintaining a slot machine without a license from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is a criminal offense.
Skill games are commonly found in taverns, restaurants, social clubs, convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, laundromats and other establishments.
Only licensed casinos and qualifying licensed truck stops may legally operate slot machines or video gaming terminals that have been inspected and approved by the Gaming Control Board.
Beginning Oct. 14, state police and other law enforcement agencies may take action against businesses that continue to possess or operate the machines. Enforcement could include criminal charges and the seizure and forfeiture of the machines, related equipment and money connected to their operation.
State police recommend that businesses contact the distributors or vendors that own the machines and arrange for their removal. That includes associated equipment such as ticket-redemption terminals.
Simply turning off or unplugging an otherwise operable machine will not be enough to comply with the law, according to state police.
Businesses whose distributors or vendors refuse to remove the machines are encouraged to contact Pennsylvania State Police for assistance before the deadline.