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Pennsylvania State Police warn sweepstakes machines may breach gambling laws

Enforcement & compliance

Pennsylvania State Police warned on 10 November that sweepstakes-style machines using non-cash payments, QR codes or mobile applications may still fall under gambling laws. Officers reported 99.4% compliance after visiting 12,202 establishments, with 12,134 no longer operating skill games; they seized 14 machines and $1,913 while investigations continued.

Operators using replacement machines face potential criminal charges if Pennsylvania authorities classify them as unlawful gambling devices.

Earlier fines and penalties by Pennsylvania State Police

DateCompanyAmountStoryAppeal status
Not namedNot statedPennsylvania State Police open reporting channel for illegal skill gamesNot stated
Not namedNot statedPennsylvania State Police warns businesses to remove skill games or face seizuresNot stated
Not namedUSD 91,000Pennsylvania police seize more than $91,000 in suspected gambling-club operationNot stated

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Enforcement & compliance

Pennsylvania State Police open reporting channel for illegal skill games

The Pennsylvania State Police introduced a public channel for reporting suspected illegal skill game operations after an enforcement deadline on 14 October. Police said switching off or unplugging a machine does not constitute its removal, and businesses that retain the machines face possible seizures and criminal charges.

A public reporting channel for suspected illegal skill game operations has been introduced by the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), following an October 14 enforcement deadline. According to the police, switching off or unplugging a machine does not count as removal. Businesses face seizures and criminal charges, the police say.

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