House Approves Video Slot Restrictions

This article comes from Highwaygames.com

In the United States, the Iowa House voted Monday to put new restrictions on video slot machines played in Iowa bars, restaurants and convenience stores. The House voted 86-10 to allow no new video slot machines to be put into operation and would ban those under age 21 from using them.

The machines look similar to the video slot machines in casinos, but instead award prize tickets that can be redeemed for merchandise at the store or establishment, but not cash. Store owners say the machines help boost profits, but some lawmakers expressed concerns that school-age children were using the machines.

After July 1, 2005, the machines would only be allowed in establishments that hold a liquor license. Rep. Scott Raecker, R-Urbandale, said the state estimates there are between 10,000-18,000 of the machines in the state, although only around 3,500 are currently registered with the state.

SOURCE: Waterloo/Cedar Falls Courier Online.