The Pennsylvania Taverns and Players Association is requesting state legislators to approve new skill game legislation before an October 13 court deadline. Failure to pass the measure will render the arcade machines illegal across the state.
Regulatory Framework and Revenue Projections
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court determined earlier this summer that skill game terminals qualify as gambling devices and must comply with state regulations. PA TAP supports a bill that would establish a dedicated legal structure for the machines and levy a $500 monthly fee per unit. According to the association, the legislation would generate roughly $300m in annual revenue for the state while maintaining existing funding streams.The terminals currently provide income for veterans organizations, volunteer fire departments, fraternal societies, and independent businesses. PA TAP notes that removing this revenue could force affected groups to scale back community programs, reduce staff, or cease operations entirely.
The machines have operated and expanded throughout Pennsylvania for twelve years without a specific regulatory framework.