Gaming: other; redemption games allowed under penal code; revise. Amends secs. 303 & 310b of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.303 & 750.310b).
Impact
The proposed amendments would effectively change how gaming compliance works for redemption games. By emphasizing the requirement for independent testing and certification of the software used in these machines, the bill aims to ensure fair play and protect consumers. It limits the maximum permissible value of prizes, including non-cash prizes and stored value cards, to majorly mitigate the risks of gambling-related issues associated with these types of amusement activities.
Summary
House Bill 4494 seeks to amend the Michigan Penal Code, specifically sections 303 and 310b, to clarify and expand the regulations surrounding redemption games. The legislation is focused on ensuring that redemption game machines, such as crane games and pusher games, structure their operations in a manner that incorporates skill elements for players. This bill aims to create a legal framework that allows these types of games to operate within defined parameters, including limits on prize values and the nature of rewards given for success in these games.
Conclusion
Overall, House Bill 4494 represents an effort to modernize gaming laws in Michigan while balancing the interests of regulation with opportunities for entertainment. Stakeholders, including operators of redemption game machines and consumers, will need to monitor the developments of this bill and its effects on the gaming landscape.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the implications of defining what constitutes 'skill' versus 'chance' in these games. Moreover, the enforcement of compliance through annual fees and independent laboratory testing raises concerns among operators about the associated costs. The need for machines to adhere to strict guidelines may also foster resistance from local business owners who fear that regulations could hinder their operations.
Gaming: other; games conducted under the Gaming Control and Revenue Act; exempt from certain provisions of the penal code. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 310h.
Legislature: apportionment; redistricting of court of appeals; provide for. Amends secs. 301, 302 & 303d of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.301 et seq.); adds sec. 303e & repeals secs. 303a, 303b & 303c of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.303a et seq.).
Gaming: bingo and charitable gaming; games conducted under the state bingo act; exempt from certain provisions of the penal code. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 310g.
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in medical marijuana controls, further providing for electronic tracking and for laboratory; and, in Medical Marijuana Advisory Board, further providing for advisory board.
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in practitioners, further providing for practitioner registration; in medical marijuana controls, further providing for electronic tracking and for laboratory; and, in Medical Marijuana Advisory Board, further providing for advisory board.
Relating to the production and regulation of hemp; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing fees; creating criminal offenses; providing civil and administrative penalties.