Important Update: Pennsylvania Skill Games and the October Compliance Deadline
At Wayne Bank we believe that staying informed helps local businesses make confident decisions. Recent developments in Pennsylvania law that have gone into effect on October 13, 2026, may affect businesses that currently host skill game machines, and we want to help keep our customers informed about what they need to know.
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Rules Skill Games Are Slot Machines
On June 15, 2026, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania ruled that skill games, commonly found in taverns, restaurants, social clubs, convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, laundromats, pizza parlors, and other businesses, qualify as “slot machines” under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act.
Under Pennsylvania law, slot machines are considered gambling devices under the Crimes Code. Owning, operating, or maintaining slot machines without a license issued by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) is a criminal offense.
The law also restricts the distribution, manufacture, assembly, sale, and leasing of these machines to parties that are properly licensed and authorized.
Who Can Legally Operate Slot Machines?
Under the Gaming Act, only licensed casinos and qualifying licensed truck stop establishments may legally possess and operate slot machines or video gaming terminals. The PGCB must also inspect and approve machines for use at licensed locations.
As a result, skill game machines located in businesses not authorized by the PGCB are subject to removal under applicable law.
October 13, 2026, Compliance Deadline
Businesses currently hosting skill game machines should be aware that Tuesday, October 13, 2026, is the compliance deadline for removing these machines and related equipment from unauthorized locations.
Beginning October 14, 2026, businesses that continue to possess, operate, or maintain these machines may face enforcement action by the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and other law enforcement agencies.
Potential consequences include:
- Seizure and forfeiture of machines and associated equipment.
- Seizure of proceeds connected to machine operations.
- Criminal charges, when appropriate.
- Administrative citations involving liquor licenses, potentially resulting in fines or license suspension.
Importantly, simply turning off or unplugging a machine does not satisfy the removal requirement. A machine that remains operable or can be readily returned to operation is still considered a slot machine under applicable law.
What Should Businesses Know?
The Pennsylvania State Police strongly recommends that businesses currently hosting skill games contact their distributors or vendors immediately to arrange for the removal of all machines and related equipment. This includes associated ticket redemption terminals.
Distributors and vendors should also be aware that refusing to remove machines and continuing to maintain them for operation after the deadline may result in criminal charges.
If a distributor or vendor refuses to remove an operable machine, businesses are encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police for assistance in addressing the situation and understanding the appropriate next steps.
Here to Help Keep You Informed
At Wayne Bank, we understand that changes in state law can affect the day-to-day operations of local businesses. Our goal is to share timely, useful information that helps the people and businesses in our communities stay informed and make decisions with confidence.
If your business currently hosts skill game machines, we encourage you to review the applicable requirements, contact your equipment provider, and take the necessary steps to address the October 13, 2026, compliance deadline.
Please note: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Businesses with questions about their specific circumstances should consult qualified legal counsel or contact the appropriate state authorities.
Wayne Bank is proud to support the people, businesses, and communities we serve. Helping our communities move forward is part of how we make Every Day Better®.