Bill > HB1619

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for skill gaming in Pennsylvania, creating a new licensing and oversight program within the Department of Revenue. The bill defines skill games as games where player skill, rather than chance, predominantly determines the outcome, and sets up a detailed system for licensing distributors, operators, and establishments that want to offer these games. Key provisions include requiring skill game software to be certified by an independent testing laboratory, limiting game play to individuals 18 and older, capping individual game stakes at $5 with maximum winnings of $5,000, and establishing a licensing process with significant fees (e.g., $50,000 for initial distributor licenses). The bill explicitly protects skill game operators from prosecution under existing gambling laws, mandates monthly reporting of game statistics, imposes criminal penalties for unauthorized operation of skill games, and prevents local municipalities from prohibiting skill games in areas where alcohol or lottery games are permitted. The Department of Revenue will have broad regulatory authority, including conducting background checks, issuing licenses, and enforcing compliance, with the ability to impose civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation. Gross profits from skill games will be subject to existing state tax laws, and the bill provides a clear legal pathway for the operation of these games across Pennsylvania.

Business and Industry

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1619