Pennsylvania authorities have ordered businesses to remove all skill game terminals by October 13. State police will begin seizing remaining machines and pursuing criminal charges against their operators from October 14.
The state Attorney General's Office estimates around 70,000 such devices are installed across Pennsylvania. They have been placed in convenience stores, gas stations and other venues for years, with operators arguing the machines depend on player skill rather than chance.
In June, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that skill games are no different from slots and fall under state gambling laws and the criminal code. The justices gave businesses four months to comply. Police warned that unplugging a machine is not enough — it must be physically removed. Owners were advised to contact distributors or haul the equipment away themselves.
After October 14, only licensed casinos and select truck-stop operators will be allowed to keep slots and video terminals. All devices must pass Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board inspection.
Several bills to legalise and tax skill games have been introduced in the state legislature over the years, but none passed. Manufacturers and small business owners argued revenue from the machines is critical for the survival of small shops and clubs.
Philadelphia has taken a harder line. The city council attempted to limit the spread of the machines, and Mayor Cherelle Parker called them 'predatory' after the court ruling. She said slots have no place in neighbourhoods already facing safety and economic problems and should remain in private clubs and casinos only.
