Courts And Regulators Are Standing Up Against Neighborhood Slot Machines

A Tennessee court recently ruled that the slot-like devices marketed as “skill” games in the state are illegal, siding with Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy.

Mulroy says the ban is a win for law enforcement, public safety, and especially the “poverty-stricken” areas that are experiencing increases in crime and drug activity due to the presence of these machines in their communities:

“The court made it clear: these machines are illegal, and we have the authority to go after those who profit from them. These operations are not just about games—they’re often linked to more serious crimes like money laundering and firearms offenses. We will continue to enforce the law to protect our communities.”

In Canada, Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission (AGCO) is also cracking down on these machines, this time for the risks of over-exposure to gambling for minors.

The Commission has revoked lottery licenses from several convenience stores for operating unapproved slot machines that the manufacturer advertises as “skill-based.” The regulator says these machines undermine their standards of “integrity, public safety and responsible access.”

“Unapproved gambling machines have no business being in convenience stores or other locations, particularly those that are available to children and youth,” said Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO’s Chief Executive Officer and Registrar.

Across the continent, localities and regulators are taking action against the deceptive neighborhood slot machines infiltrating their communities and profiting off their residents. Everywhere they go, these devices prey on low-income communities and put vulnerable populations at risk.

It’s time Virginia gets serious about our own infestation of illegal slot machines. Neighborhood slot machines are illegal, and the laws on the books should be enforced. Let’s get these dangerous devices off our streets for good.