Bill > HB487

This bill updates Texas law regarding gambling devices, particularly eight-liners (electronic devices simulating slot machines), by expanding and clarifying definitions and creating new legal defenses. The bill redefines "device" and "eight-liner" to include electronic, electromechanical, and mechanical contrivances, and broadens the definition of "gambling device" to explicitly include eight-liners and various electronic game versions. It introduces a new section in the Penal Code establishing defenses for certain amusement devices, specifically allowing devices where skill is the predominant factor in winning, and where prizes are limited to non-cash merchandise with a maximum wholesale value of $50 per item or $5 per play. The bill also amends the Occupations Code to permit licensed organizations to exhibit and allow patrons to play certain gambling devices that meet the specified criteria. Additionally, the bill repeals previous legal provisions related to local government regulation of such devices and creates a transition period for applying the new law, with the changes taking effect on September 1, 2025, and applying only to offenses committed on or after that date.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB487