summary
Introduced
02/04/2026
02/04/2026
In Committee
02/10/2026
02/10/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Changes the definition of "gambling device" to include any vending or other electronic machine or device, including, without limitation, a machine or device that awards credits and contains a circuit, meter, or switch capable of removing and recording the removal of credits that offers a person entry into any contest, competition, sweepstakes, scheme, plan, or other selection process that involves or is dependent upon an element of chance for which the person may receive a gift, award, or other item or service of value if that offer is incidental to or results from: (A) the purchase of an item or service of value; or (B) the purchase or gratuitous receipt of a coupon, voucher, certificate, or other similar credit that can be redeemed for or applied towards an item or service of value from such machine or device or elsewhere. Provides that a person shall not be convicted of gambling if the person participates in a game of skill or chance where money or other things of value can be won but no payment or purchase is required to participate, except where conducted through the use of a gambling device or by means of the Internet. Provides that a gambling offense involving such a gambling device is a Class 4 felony. Amends the Video Gaming Act. Removes a provision allowing for the use of a game device without a license if the game device is used in an activity that is not gambling under the Criminal Code of 2012. Effective immediately.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Criminal Code of 2012 and the Video Gaming Act to broaden the definition of a "gambling device" to include electronic machines that award credits and offer entry into contests, sweepstakes, or other chance-based selection processes, even if these offers are incidental to purchasing an item or service, or receiving a coupon. It clarifies that participating in a game of skill or chance where no payment is required is not considered gambling, unless conducted through a gambling device or the internet. The bill also establishes that gambling offenses involving such expanded gambling devices will be a Class 4 felony, a more serious criminal offense. Additionally, it removes an exemption that previously allowed the use of a game device without a license if its activity was not considered gambling under the Criminal Code.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Rules Committee (on 02/10/2026)
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