Pennsylvania lawmakers propose framework as skill game ban approaches on 13 October

Lawmakers in Pennsylvania have released two matching co-sponsorship memoranda, House Memo 49310 and Senate Memo 49312, proposing a regulatory framework to keep skill game machines in operation, according to the memoranda. The proposals come ahead of a removal deadline of 13 October 2026 for businesses hosting the machines.

The deadline follows a ruling by the Supreme Court of Virginia on 15 June 2026 that declared skill game machines to be slot machines under the state's Gaming Act, according to the ruling. The court granted a 120-day grace period for lawmakers to pass a regulatory framework. Businesses found still housing the machines after 14 October face law enforcement seizure and criminal charges, according to the report.

The memoranda were issued by Rep. Danilo Burgos (D-Philadelphia) and Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Bradford/Lycoming/Sullivan/Tioga/Union). They propose expanding Video Gaming Terminals at truck stops and taxing skill game machines, with a $500 monthly fee per terminal and tax revenues estimated at hundreds of millions of dollars.

The revenue split set out in the memos gives 84% to roads, bridges and public transportation, 15% to Fire & EMS and 1% to administrative costs. Beyond the money, the memos outline a set of operating rules: licensing, testing, monitoring and enforcement handled at state level; a central monitoring system whose records can be audited; independent audits; tools to remove illegal machines; video surveillance and requirements on employee visibility; and age verification setting a minimum of 21, together with a self-exclusion program.

According to the memos, skill game machines play an essential part in how small businesses operate statewide. The memos also point to the scale of Pennsylvania's transport and infrastructure needs, saying that sustained and significant funding is needed for roads, bridges, public transit systems and first responders. The report noted that the supplemental income from skill game machines supports thousands of small businesses across Pennsylvania.

Lawmakers have three session days left before the deadline, according to the report. It said there is bipartisan agreement that a solution is essential but a lack of consensus on issues including tax rates and machine limits.