Pennsylvania to begin enforcing skill game ruling on October 14, with seizures and criminal penalties possible

Pennsylvania is preparing to enforce a state Supreme Court ruling on skill games as the stay on that decision approaches its expiry on October 14. Once the date passes, authorities intend to begin seizing machines that have not been removed from businesses.

The skill games segment has been disputed for years. Supporters argued that the machines, although similar in appearance to slot machines, include an element of skill that can influence the outcome. Because of that argument, the devices spread widely across venues such as gas stations without a gambling licence. Opponents countered that the alleged skill element has no legal significance.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ultimately ruled that skill games should be subject to the same laws as gambling machines. The court found that the skill element is not relevant enough for the games to be treated as a separate category. The decision was put on hold under a 120-day stay, which is now close to ending.

Attorney General Dave Sunday and the Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed that they are ready to raid venues that fail to comply and to prosecute those responsible. They stressed that switching the machines off is not sufficient and that businesses must physically remove them from their premises. According to the State Police, violators could face criminal prosecution, including fines of up to $10,000 per violation and prison terms of up to five years.

The State Police have also set up a website for businesses that host skill games. It explains how to proceed and outlines the risks of non-compliance, and the force urged operators of such venues to review the law and remove their machines promptly.

Estimates put the number of skill games in Pennsylvania at as many as 70,000. A separate legislative effort aims to legalise the machines, but it is considered highly unlikely to become law before the October 14 deadline.