ICYMI: Ontario Isn’t Playing Games When It Comes To Enforcement Against So-Called Skill Games

ICYMI – The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has continued its efforts to rid the province of deceptive neighborhood slot machines that have proliferated illegally throughout Ontario communities.

The AGCO inspection of more than 200 lottery-licensed businesses turned up more than 50 illegal neighborhood slot machines. These machines had been operating unlawfully and without proper regulatory oversight – neglecting standard consumer protections and making the games accessible to minors. AGCO Registrar’s, Dr. Karin Schnarr, stated:

“[These] machines have been marketed as games that only require skill, but AGCO testing determined that these machines ordinarily rely on chance… While other jurisdictions grapple with the entrenchment of these unlawful gaming machines, the AGCO has taken a proactive stance to ensure they do not take root here in Ontario.”

This is a prime example of the stance lawmakers and regulators should take – protect the youth, protect the vulnerable, and protect the community.

These are the same types of predatory neighborhood slot machines attempting to get a foothold in Virginia. Lawmakers and law enforcement should take a page from Ontario’s playbook: Bad actors and illegal convenience store gambling have no place in Virginia and must be curtailed.

If you see these devices taking advantage of your community, report them here.

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