SCHUYLKILL COUNTY — Businesses in Schuylkill County and across Pennsylvania that host skill game machines have until , to comply with requirements announced following a Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
Beginning , establishments that continue to possess, operate or maintain the machines outside locations licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board could face equipment seizures and criminal prosecution.
Pennsylvania State Police Announce Skill Games Guidance
In a reminder issued Monday, , state police announced a new informational webpage intended to help business owners understand the requirements and locate assistance.
According to PSP, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled on that the devices are slot machines under Pennsylvania’s Gaming Act. The machines are commonly found in taverns, restaurants, social clubs, convenience stores and other businesses.
Where Gaming Machines May Be Operated
State police said slot machines and approved video gaming terminals may legally operate only at licensed casinos and qualifying licensed truck stop establishments authorized by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Businesses outside those licensed locations are being instructed to arrange for the removal of their skill game machines and related equipment before the compliance deadline.
Turning Off a Skill Game Machine Is Not Enough
PSP emphasized that simply turning off or unplugging a machine does not satisfy the requirements.
Temporarily disabling a device—including removing hardware or software that can easily be replaced—also does not resolve the issue if the machine can readily be returned to operation.
What Pennsylvania Businesses Should Do
State police are advising businesses with skill game machines to take the following steps:
- Contact the machine distributor or vendor to arrange for removal.
- Remove related equipment, including ticket-redemption terminals.
- Document attempts to have the machines removed.
- Report a vendor or owner who refuses to remove the equipment.
- Contact the appropriate law-enforcement agency for assistance when necessary.
Possible Seizures, Charges and Liquor-License Penalties
Enforcement may include the seizure and forfeiture of machines and associated equipment, the seizure of proceeds and criminal charges when appropriate, according to PSP.
The guidance also warns that liquor-license holders could face administrative citations that may result in fines or license suspensions.
Where Businesses Can Get Help
Businesses with liquor licenses should contact their local Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement office. Establishments without liquor licenses should contact their local police department or Pennsylvania State Police station.
Additional guidance and contact information are available through the official Pennsylvania State Police Skill Games Resources webpage.