SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1217

As of March 11, 2009

Title: An act relating to providing the gambling commission with authority to determine locations where amusement games may be conducted.

Brief Description: Providing the gambling commission with authority to determine locations where amusement games may be conducted.

Sponsors: Representatives Simpson, Alexander, Conway and Wood; by request of Gambling Commission.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/23/09, 96-1.

Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection:

Staff: Kathleen Buchli (786-7488)

Background: Under the Gambling Act (Act), the Washington State Gambling Commission (Commission) regulates wagering on activities such as social card games, bingo, raffles, amusement games, punch boards, pull-tabs, and fund-raising events. Several sections of the Act address amusement games. An amusement game is a game played for entertainment that involves active participation by the contestant and that awards merchandise prizes only, such as crane games. Certain other criteria must be met.

The Act authorizes the Commission to issue licenses allowing persons, associations, or organizations to conduct or operate amusement games in such a manner and at such locations as the Commission may determine. The Act lists particular locations where amusement games may be conducted including certain fairs, civic centers, or amusement parks. Commission rules allow licensed amusement game operators to conduct amusement games at commercially-operated family sports complexes, skating facilities, and grocery and department stores.

Summary of Bill: The Commission is expressly authorized to license any person, association, or organization to operate amusement games at locations that are in addition to those listed in the Act.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.