HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                     HB 1318

Brief Description:  Prescribing amusement game agreements.

Sponsors:  Representatives Honeyford, Sheldon, Crouse and McMorris

                  Hearing:  February 5, 1997

BACKGROUND:

Since gambling activity was authorized in 1973, the Gambling Commission has prohibited exclusive agreements to buy or sell equipment or services connected with gambling activity.  Exclusive agreements might involve limiting a licensee to one supplier for the purchase of equipment or preclude a licensee from purchasing from any other source.

SUMMARY OF BILL:

For amusement games only, agreements that require a person to purchase the games and the materials, services and equipment connected with the games exclusively from one supplier are no longer prohibited if limited in duration.  The agreements may extend for a period of up to three years and may be renewed automatically for additional periods of three years if neither party seeks to terminate the agreement.

RULES AUTHORITY:  The bill does not contain provisions addressing the rule-making powers of an agency.

FISCAL NOTE:  Not requested.

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.