(WTAJ) — Pennsylvania Skill games have exploded in popularity while being a “grey area” between gaming and gambling. Now, one PA Representative wants to regulate and possibly restrict them.

From PA Gaming Board oversight to restrictions on machines in gas stations, Rep. Ben Waxman (D-Philadelphia) is looking at ways to protect problem gamblers and others from the unregulated devices.

Waxman introduced the Skill Game Consumer Protection Act to establish a baseline of protections.

“As discussions continue over the potential regulation of skill games in Pennsylvania, we must ensure that any authorization is paired with meaningful consumer protections,” Waxman wrote. “Skill games often operate in a manner similar to slot machines, but without the safeguards required in regulated casinos, and they present a heightened risk to problem gamblers and vulnerable populations due to their accessibility and speed of play.”

The Act looks to utilize the following protections and changes to PA Skill machines:

Requiring all machines to connect to a centralized monitoring system overseen by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

Implementing mandatory player protections, including play-speed limits, required breaks, daily loss caps, prohibiting deceptive design features, and extending the Commonwealth’s self-exclusion program to all skill game devices.

Restricting placement of machines in gas stations and convenience stores.

Authorizing municipalities to limit or prohibit the placement of skill machines within their jurisdictions.

Dedicating a percentage of skill games revenue for problem gambling treatment and prevention.

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The legislation currently has 10 fellow Democratic co-sponsors. It was introduced to the Gaming Oversight Committee on June 1. You can read more about the legislation by clicking here.

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