The article discusses the impending removal of “skill game” devices from non-licensed establishments in Pennsylvania, following a state Supreme Court ruling categorizing these machines as slot machines under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act. Businesses, including gas stations, laundromats, and social clubs, must remove these devices by October 14, otherwise, they face prosecution. Attorney General Dave Sunday emphasized compliance to avoid legal consequences and suggested contacting distributors for removal.
Joe Rocca from Rite Touch Distribution expressed shock at the ruling, explaining that his company’s revenue has plummeted since June. He estimated over 100,000 skill game terminals statewide and noted the logistical challenges of their removal. Some businesses argue these machines are crucial for their budgets, with associations seeking legislative solutions to regulate them instead of banning them outright. Proposed measures in Harrisburg include a potential pause on enforcement to allow for regulation.
