Pennsylvania State Police are reminding businesses that unlicensed skill-game machines must be removed by October 13 following a state Supreme Court ruling that classified the devices as slot machines.
The court ruled June 15 that the machines fall under the Gaming Act. State police say slot machines are gambling devices under Pennsylvania law and may be possessed or operated only by licensed casinos and qualifying licensed truck-stop establishments using approved equipment.
The warning applies to machines found in locations such as taverns, restaurants, social clubs, convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, laundromats and pizza shops. Businesses that still possess, operate or maintain unauthorized machines after the deadline may face enforcement beginning October 14.
State police say enforcement can include seizure and forfeiture of the machines, related equipment and proceeds, along with criminal charges when appropriate. The agency also cautioned distributors, vendors and manufacturers that maintaining, assembling, selling or leasing unauthorized slot machines can carry criminal consequences.
Simply turning off or unplugging an otherwise operable machine will not satisfy the requirement. State police say a device that can readily be placed back into service remains a slot machine under the ruling.
Businesses are advised to contact the distributors or vendors that own the devices and arrange for their removal. If a vendor refuses, the establishment can contact its local Pennsylvania State Police troop for assistance.
