2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 4 - AMUSEMENTS › Chapter 11 - General Provisions › Section 1103 - Definitions

§ 1103. Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this part shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Affiliate,"
"affiliate of" or "person affiliated with." A person that directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by or is under common control with a specified person.
"Airport authority."
Any of the following:
(1) the governing body of a municipal authority organized and incorporated to oversee the operations of a qualified airport under 53 Pa.C.S. Ch. 56 (relating to municipal authorities); or
(2) a city of the first class that regulates the use and control of a qualified airport located partially in a county of the first class and partially in a county contiguous to a county of the first class.
"Airport gaming area."
A location or locations within a qualified airport approved by the airport authority and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for the conduct of interactive gaming through the use of multi-use computing devices by eligible passengers.
"Applicant."
Any person who, on his own behalf or on behalf of another, is applying for permission to engage in any act or activity which is regulated under the provisions of this part. In cases in which the applicant is a person other than an individual, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board shall determine the associated persons whose qualifications are necessary as a precondition to the licensing of the applicant.
"Approved,"
"approval" or "approve." When used in reference to an application submitted to the State Horse Racing Commission or the State Harness Racing Commission to conduct harness or thoroughbred race meetings or the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to authorize and regulate the placement and operation of slot machines, the terms refer to the date that an application to the State Horse Racing Commission, State Harness Racing Commission or the board is granted regardless of the pendency of any administrative or judicial appeals or other legal action challenging the decision of either commission or the board.
"Associated equipment."
Any equipment or mechanical, electromechanical or electronic contrivance, component or machine used in connection with slot machines or table games, including linking devices which connect to progressive slot machines and multistate wide-area progressive slot machines or slot machine replacement parts, equipment which affects the proper reporting and counting of gross terminal revenue, gross table game revenue and gross interactive gaming revenue, computerized systems for controlling and monitoring slot machines, table games or interactive games, including, but not limited to, the central control computer to which all slot machines communicate, devices for weighing or counting money and interactive gaming devices necessary for the operation of interactive games as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The term shall not include count room equipment.
"Auction."
A public meeting of the board to receive and open sealed bids submitted in accordance with section 1305.2 (relating to conduct of auctions).
"Authority."
An authority created by the Commonwealth which purchases State gaming receipts under section 1202 (relating to general and specific powers).
"Authorized interactive game."
An interactive game approved by regulation of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to be suitable for interactive gaming offered by an interactive gaming certificate holder or an interactive gaming operator on behalf of an interactive gaming certificate holder in accordance with Chapter 13B (relating to interactive gaming). The term shall include any interactive game approved by regulation of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to be suitable for interactive gaming through the use of a multi-use computing device.
"Background investigation."
A security, criminal, credit and suitability investigation of a person as provided for in this part. The investigation shall include the status of taxes owed to the United States and to the Commonwealth and its political subdivisions.
"Backside area."
Those areas of the racetrack facility that are not generally accessible to the public and which include, but are not limited to, those facilities commonly referred to as barns, track kitchens, recreation halls, backside employee quarters and training tracks, and roadways providing access thereto. The term does not include those areas of the racetrack facility which are generally accessible to the public, including the various buildings commonly referred to as the grandstand or the racing surfaces, paddock enclosures and walking rings.
"Banking game."
Any table game in which a player competes against a certificate holder rather than against another player.
"Bid."
An offer to pay for the right to select a Category 4 location and apply for a Category 4 slot machine license.
"Board."
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board established under section 1201 (relating to Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board established).
"Bonds."
Bonds, notes, instruments, refunding notes and bonds and other evidences of indebtedness or obligations, which an authority issues to fund the purchase of State gaming receipts.
"Bureau."
The Bureau of Investigations and Enforcement of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Cash."
United States currency and coin.
"Cash equivalent."
An asset that is readily convertible to cash, including, but not limited to, any of the following:
(1) Chips or tokens.
(2) Travelers checks.
(3) Foreign currency and coin.
(4) Certified checks, cashier's checks and money orders.
(5) Personal checks or drafts.
(6) A negotiable instrument applied against credit extended by a certificate holder, an interactive gaming certificate holder, an interactive gaming operator or a financial institution.
(6.1) A prepaid access instrument.
(7) Any other instrument or representation of value that the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board deems a cash equivalent.
"Category 4 location."
A specific geographic point established by geographic coordinates in this Commonwealth with a 15-linear mile radius.
"Central control computer."
A central site computer controlled by the Department of Revenue and accessible by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to which all slot machines communicate for the purpose of auditing capacity, real-time information retrieval of the details of any financial event that occurs in the operation of a slot machine, including, but not limited to, coin in, coin out, ticket in, ticket out, jackpots, machine door openings and power failure, and remote machine activation and disabling of slot machines.
"Certificate holder."
A slot machine licensee that holds a table game operation certificate awarded by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board in accordance with Chapter 13A (relating to table games).
"Cheat."
To defraud or steal from any player, slot machine licensee or the Commonwealth while operating or playing a slot machine, table game or authorized interactive game, including causing, aiding, abetting or conspiring with another person to do so. The term shall also mean to alter or causing, aiding, abetting or conspiring with another person to alter the elements of chance, method of selection or criteria which determine:
(1) The result of a slot machine game, table game or authorized interactive game.
(2) The amount or frequency of payment in a slot machine game, table game or authorized interactive game.
(3) The value of a wagering instrument.
(4) The value of a wagering credit.
The term does not include altering a slot machine, table game device or associated equipment or interactive gaming device or associated equipment for maintenance or repair with the approval of a slot machine licensee.
"Cheating or thieving device."
A device, software or hardware used or possessed with the intent to be used to cheat during the operation or play of any slot machine, table game or authorized interactive game. The term shall also include any device used to alter a slot machine, a table game device or associated equipment, an authorized interactive game or interactive gaming device or associated equipment without the slot machine licensee's approval.
"Chip."
A representation of value, including a plaque, issued by a certificate holder for use in playing a table game at the certificate holder's licensed facility and redeemable with the issuing certificate holder for cash or cash equivalent.
"Commission."
The State Horse Racing Commission as defined in 3 Pa.C.S. § 9301 (relating to definitions).
"Communications technology."
Any method used and the components employed to facilitate the transmission and receipt of information, including transmission and reception by systems using wire, wireless, cable, radio, microwave, light, fiber optics, satellite or computer data networks, including the Internet and intranets.
"Compensation."
Any thing of value, money or a financial benefit conferred on or received by a person in return for services rendered, or to be rendered, whether by that person or another.
"Complimentary service."
Any lodging, service or item which is provided to an individual at no cost or at a reduced cost which is not generally available to the public under similar circumstances. Group rates, including convention and government rates, shall be deemed to be generally available to the public.
"Concession operator."
A person engaged in the sale or offering for sale of consumer goods or services to the public at a qualified airport, or authorized to conduct other commercial activities related to passenger services at a qualified airport, in accordance with the terms and conditions of an agreement or contract with an airport authority, government entity or other person.
"Conduct of gaming."
The licensed placement, operation and play of slot machines, table games and interactive games and casino simulcasting under this part, as authorized and approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The term shall include the licensed placement, operation and play of authorized interactive games through the use of multi-use computing devices at a qualified airport under Subchapter B.1 of Chapter 13B (relating to multi-use computing devices).
"Contest."
A slot machine, table game or authorized interactive game competition among players for cash, cash equivalents or prizes.
"Controlling interest."
For a publicly traded domestic or foreign corporation, a controlling interest is an interest in a legal entity, applicant or licensee if a person's sole voting rights under State law or corporate articles or bylaws entitle the person to elect or appoint one or more of the members of the board of directors or other governing board or the ownership or beneficial holding of 5% or more of the securities of the publicly traded corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other form of publicly traded legal entity, unless this presumption of control or ability to elect is rebutted by clear and convincing evidence. For a privately held domestic or foreign corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other form of privately held legal entity, a controlling interest is the holding of any securities in the legal entity, unless this presumption of control is rebutted by clear and convincing evidence.
"Conviction."
A finding of guilt or a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, whether or not a judgment of sentence has been imposed as determined by the law of the jurisdiction in which the prosecution was held. The term does not include a conviction that has been expunged or overturned or for which an individual has been pardoned or had an order of Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition entered.
"Corporation."
Includes a publicly traded corporation.
"Count room."
A secured room at a licensed facility designated for the counting, wrapping and recording of slot machine and table game receipts.
"Counterfeit chip."
Any object or thing that is:
(1) used or intended to be used to play a table game at a certificate holder's licensed facility and which was not issued by that certificate holder for such use;
(2) presented to a certificate holder for redemption if the object was not issued by the certificate holder;
(3) used or intended to be used to play an authorized interactive game which was not approved by the interactive gaming certificate holder for such use; or
(4) presented during play of an authorized interactive game for redemption, if the object or thing was not issued by the interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator.
"Department."
The Department of Revenue of the Commonwealth.
"Electronic gaming table."
A gaming table approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board that is a mechanical, electrical or computerized contrivance, terminal, machine or other device which, upon insertion or placement of cash or cash equivalents therein or thereon, or upon a wager or payment of any consideration whatsoever, is available for play or operation by one or more players as a table game. The term shall include any gaming table where a wager or payment is made using an electronic or computerized wagering or payment system. The term shall not include a slot machine.
"Eligible passenger."
An individual 21 years of age or older who has cleared security check points with a valid airline boarding pass for travel from one destination to another by airplane.
"Executive-level public employee."
The term shall include the following:
(1) Deputy Secretaries of the Commonwealth and the Governor's Office executive staff.
(2) An employee of the executive branch whose duties substantially involve licensing or enforcement under this part, who has discretionary power which may affect or influence the outcome of a Commonwealth agency's action or decision or who is involved in the development of regulations or policies relating to a licensed entity. The term shall include an employee with law enforcement authority.
(3) An employee of a county or municipality with discretionary powers which may affect or influence the outcome of the county's or municipality's action or decision related to this part or who is involved in the development of law, regulation or policy relating to matters regulated under this part. The term shall include an employee with law enforcement authority.
(4) An employee of a department, agency, board, commission, authority or other governmental body not included in paragraph (1), (2) or (3) with discretionary power which may affect or influence the outcome of the governmental body's action or decision related to this part or who is involved in the development of regulation or policy relating to matters regulated under this part. The term shall include an employee with law enforcement authority.
"Financial backer."
An investor, mortgagee, bondholder, noteholder or other sources of equity or capital provided to an applicant or licensed entity.
"Fully automated electronic gaming table."
An electronic gaming table determined by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to be playable or operable as a table game without the assistance or participation of a person acting on behalf of a certificate holder.
"Fund."
The State Gaming Fund established under section 1403 (relating to establishment of State Gaming Fund and net slot machine revenue distribution).
"Gaming employee."
Any employee of a slot machine licensee, including, but not limited to:
(1) Cashiers.
(2) Change personnel.
(3) Count room personnel.
(4) Slot attendants.
(5) Hosts or other individuals authorized to extend complimentary services, including employees performing functions similar to those performed by a gaming junket representative.
(6) Machine mechanics, computer machine technicians or table game device technicians.
(7) Security personnel.
(8) Surveillance personnel.
(9) Promotional play supervisors, credit supervisors, pit supervisors, cashier supervisors, shift supervisors, table game managers and assistant managers and other supervisors and managers, except for those specifically identified in this part as key employees.
(10) Boxmen.
(11) Dealers or croupiers.
(12) Floormen.
(13) Personnel authorized to issue promotional play.
(14) Personnel authorized to issue credit.
The term shall include employees of a person holding a supplier's license whose duties are directly involved with the repair or distribution of slot machines, table game devices or associated equipment or interactive gaming devices or associated equipment sold or provided to a licensed facility within this Commonwealth as determined by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The term shall further include employees of a person authorized by the board to supply goods and services related to interactive gaming or any subcontractor or an employee of a subcontractor that supplies interactive gaming devices, including multi-use computing devices, or associated equipment to an interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator who are directly involved in the operations of interactive gaming. The term does not include bartenders, cocktail servers or other persons engaged solely in preparing or serving food or beverages, clerical or secretarial personnel, parking attendants, janitorial, stage, sound and light technicians and other nongaming personnel as determined by the board.
"Gaming floor."
Any portion of a licensed facility where slot machines or table games have been installed for use or play.
"Gaming junket."
A gaming arrangement made by a gaming junket enterprise or a gaming junket representative for an individual who:
(1) Is selected or approved for participation in the arrangement based on the individual's ability to satisfy specific financial qualifications and the likelihood that the individual will participate in playing slot machines or table games and patronize a licensed facility for the purpose of gaming.
(2) Receives complimentary services or gifts from a slot machine licensee for participation in the arrangement, including the costs of transportation, food, lodging or entertainment.
"Gaming junket enterprise."
A person, other than a slot machine licensee, who employs or otherwise engages the services of a gaming junket representative to arrange gaming junkets to a licensed facility, regardless of whether the activities of the person or the gaming junket representative occur within this Commonwealth.
"Gaming junket representative."
An individual, other than an employee of a slot machine licensee, who arranges and negotiates the terms of a gaming junket or selects individuals to participate in a gaming junket to a licensed facility, regardless of whether the activities of the individual occur within this Commonwealth.
"Gaming-related restricted area."
Any room or area of a licensed facility which is specifically designated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board as restricted or by the slot machine licensee as restricted in its board-approved internal controls.
"Gaming school."
Any educational institution approved by the Department of Education as an accredited college or university, community college, Pennsylvania private licensed school or its equivalent and whose curriculum guidelines are approved by the Department of Labor and Industry to provide education and job training related to employment opportunities associated with slot machines, table games or interactive games, including slot machine, table game device and associated equipment maintenance and repair and interactive gaming devices and associated equipment maintenance and repair.
"Gaming service provider."
A person that is not required to be licensed as a manufacturer, supplier, management company or gaming junket enterprise under this part and:
(1) provides goods or services, including, but not limited to, count room equipment, to a slot machine licensee or an applicant for a slot machine license for use in the operation of a licensed facility; and
(2) provides goods or services to a slot machine licensee or an applicant for a slot machine license that requires access to the gaming floor or a gaming-related restricted area of a licensed facility.
"Gross interactive airport gaming revenue."
The following shall apply:
(1) Revenue shall be the total of all cash or cash equivalent wagers paid by an eligible passenger to an interactive gaming certificate holder at a qualified airport through the use of multi-use computing devices in consideration for the play of authorized interactive games at a qualified airport through the use of multi-use computing devices, including cash received as entry fees for contests or tournaments, minus:
(i) The total of cash or cash equivalents paid out to an eligible passenger as winnings.
(ii) The actual cost paid by the interactive gaming certificate holder at a qualified airport through the use of multi-use computing devices for personal property distributed to a player as a result of playing an authorized interactive game. This subparagraph does not include travel expenses, food, refreshments, lodging or services.
(2) Amounts deposited with an interactive gaming certificate holder for purposes of interactive gaming at a qualified airport through the use of multi-use computing devices and amounts taken in fraudulent acts perpetrated against an interactive gaming certificate holder for which the interactive gaming certificate holder is not reimbursed and shall not be considered to have been paid to the interactive gaming certificate holder for purposes of calculating gross interactive airport gaming revenue.
"Gross interactive gaming revenue."
As follows:
(1) The total of all cash or cash equivalent wagers paid by registered players to an interactive gaming certificate holder in consideration for the play of authorized interactive games, including cash received as entry fees for contests or tournaments, minus:
(i) The total of cash or cash equivalents paid out to registered players as winnings.
(ii) The actual cost paid by the interactive gaming certificate holder for any personal property distributed to a player as a result of playing an authorized interactive game. This subparagraph does not include travel expenses, food, refreshments, lodging or services.
(2) Amounts deposited with an interactive gaming certificate holder for purposes of interactive gaming and amounts taken in fraudulent acts perpetrated against an interactive gaming certificate holder for which the interactive gaming certificate holder is not reimbursed shall not be considered to have been paid to the interactive gaming certificate holder for purposes of calculating gross interactive gaming revenue.
"Gross table game revenue."
The total of:
(1) Cash or cash equivalents received in the playing of a table game minus the total of:
(i) Cash or cash equivalents paid to players as a result of playing a table game.
(ii) Cash or cash equivalents paid to purchase annuities to fund prizes payable to players over a period of time as a result of playing a table game.
(iii) The actual cost paid by the certificate holder for any personal property distributed to a player as a result of playing a table game. This does not include travel expenses, food, refreshments, lodging or services.
(2) Contest or tournament fees or payments, including entry fees, buy-ins, re-buys and administrative fees, imposed by a certificate holder to participate in a table game contest or tournament, less cash paid or actual cost paid by a certificate holder for prizes awarded to the contest or tournament winners.
(3) The total amount of the rake collected by a certificate holder.
The term does not include counterfeit cash or chips; coins or currency of other countries received in the playing of a table game, except to the extent that the coins or currency are readily convertible to cash; or cash taken in a fraudulent act perpetrated against a certificate holder for which the certificate holder is not reimbursed.
"Gross terminal revenue."
The total of:
(1) cash or cash equivalent wagers received by a slot machine minus the total of:
(i) Cash or cash equivalents paid out to players as a result of playing a slot machine, whether paid manually or paid out by the slot machine.
(ii) Cash or cash equivalents paid to purchase annuities to fund prizes payable to players over a period of time as a result of playing a slot machine.
(iii) Any personal property distributed to a player as a result of playing a slot machine. This does not include travel expenses, food, refreshments, lodging or services.
(2) cash received as entry fees for slot machine contests or slot machine tournaments.
The term does not include counterfeit cash or tokens; coins or currency of other countries received in slot machines, except to the extent that the coins or currency are readily convertible to cash; or cash taken in a fraudulent act perpetrated against a slot machine licensee for which the licensee is not reimbursed.
"Holding company."
A person, other than an individual, which, directly or indirectly, owns or has the power or right to control or to vote any significant part of the outstanding voting securities of a corporation or other form of business organization. A holding company indirectly has, holds or owns any such power, right or security if it does so through an interest in a subsidiary or successive subsidiaries.
"Horsemen of this Commonwealth."
A thoroughbred or standardbred horse owner or trainer who enters and runs his or her horse at a licensed racing entity in the current or prior calendar year and meets the requirements of the horsemen's organization of which he or she is a member to participate in the receipt of benefits therefrom; or an employee of a trainer who meets the requirements of the horsemen's organization of which he or she is a member to participate in the receipt of benefits therefrom.
"Horsemen's organization."
A trade association which represents the majority of owners and trainers who own and race horses at a licensed racetrack.
"Hotel."
As follows:
(1) Except as provided under paragraph (2), one or more buildings owned or operated by a certificate holder which are attached to, physically connected to or adjacent to the certificate holder's licensed facility in which members of the public may, for a consideration, obtain sleeping accommodations.
(2) When the term is used in section 1305 (relating to Category 3 slot machine license) or 1407(d) (relating to Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund), a building or buildings in which members of the public may, for a consideration, obtain sleeping accommodations.
"Hybrid slot machine."
A slot machine in which a combination of the skill of the player and elements of chance affect the outcome of the game.
"Independent contractor."
A person who performs professional, scientific, technical, advisory or consulting services for the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for a fee, honorarium or similar compensation pursuant to a contract.
"Initial auction."
An auction at which a Category 1 and Category 2 slot machine licensee may submit a bid.
"Institutional investor."
Any retirement fund administered by a public agency for the exclusive benefit of Federal, State or local public employees, investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (54 Stat. 789, 15 U.S.C. § 80a-1 et seq.), collective investment trust organized by banks under Part Nine of the Rules of the Comptroller of the Currency, closed-end investment trust, chartered or licensed life insurance company or property and casualty insurance company, banking and other chartered or licensed lending institution, investment advisor registered under The Investment Advisors Act of 1940 (54 Stat. 847, 15 U.S.C. § 80b-1 et seq.) and such other persons as the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board may determine consistent with this part.
"Interactive game."
Any gambling game offered through the use of communications technology that allows a person, utilizing money, checks, electronic checks, electronic transfers of money, credit cards or any other instrumentality to transmit electronic information to assist in the placement of a bet or wager and corresponding information related to the display of the game, game outcomes or other similar information. The term shall not include:
(1) A lottery game or Internet instant game as defined in the act of August 26, 1971 (P.L.351, No.91), known as the State Lottery Law.
(2) iLottery under Chapter 5 (relating to lottery).
(3) A nongambling game that does not otherwise require a license under the laws of this Commonwealth.
(4) A fantasy contest under Chapter 3 (relating to fantasy contests).
"Interactive gaming."
The placing of wagers with an interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator using a computer network of both Federal and non-Federal interoperable packet switched data networks through which an interactive gaming certificate holder may offer authorized interactive games to registered players. The term shall include the placing of wagers through the use of a multi-use computing device.
"Interactive gaming account."
The formal, electronic system implemented by an interactive gaming certificate holder to record the balance of a registered player's debits, credits and other financial activity related to interactive gaming.
"Interactive gaming account agreement."
An agreement entered into between an interactive gaming certificate holder and a registered player which governs the terms and conditions of the registered player's interactive gaming account and the use of the Internet for purposes of placing wagers on authorized interactive games operated by an interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator.
"Interactive gaming agreement."
An agreement entered into by or between an interactive gaming certificate holder and an interactive gaming operator related to the offering or operation of interactive gaming or an interactive gaming system by the interactive gaming operator on behalf of the interactive gaming certificate holder. The term shall include an interactive gaming agreement entered into between an interactive gaming certificate holder and an interactive gaming operator for the conduct of interactive gaming through the use of multi-use computing devices at a qualified airport in accordance with Chapter 13B (relating to interactive gaming).
"Interactive gaming certificate."
The authorization issued to a slot machine licensee by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board authorizing the operation and conduct of interactive gaming by a slot machine licensee in accordance with Chapter 13B (relating to interactive gaming).
"Interactive gaming certificate holder."
A slot machine licensee that has been granted authorization by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to operate interactive gaming in accordance with Chapter 13B (relating to interactive gaming).
"Interactive gaming device."
All hardware and software and other technology, equipment or device of any kind as determined by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to be necessary for the conduct of authorized interactive games.
"Interactive gaming license."
A license issued to an interactive gaming operator by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board under Chapter 13B (relating to interactive gaming).
"Interactive gaming operator."
A person licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to operate interactive gaming or an interactive gaming system on behalf of an interactive gaming certificate holder. The term shall include a person that has received conditional authorization under section 13B14 (relating to interactive gaming operators) for so long as such authorization is effective.
"Interactive gaming platform."
The combination of hardware and software or other technology designed and used to manage, conduct and record interactive games and the wagers associated with interactive games, as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The term shall include any emerging or new technology deployed to advance the conduct and operation of interactive gaming, as approved through regulation by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Interactive gaming reciprocal agreement."
An agreement negotiated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and approved by the Governor on behalf of the Commonwealth with the regulatory agency of one or more states or jurisdictions where interactive gaming is legally authorized which will permit the conduct of interactive gaming between interactive gaming certificate holders in this Commonwealth and gaming entities in the states or jurisdictions that are parties to the agreement.
"Interactive gaming restricted area."
Any room or area, as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, used by an interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator to manage, control and operate interactive gaming, including, where approved by the board, redundancy facilities.
"Interactive gaming skin or skins."
The portal or portals to an interactive gaming platform or interactive gaming website through which authorized interactive games are made available by an interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator to registered players in this Commonwealth or registered players in any other state or jurisdiction which has entered into an interactive gaming reciprocal agreement.
"Interactive gaming system."
All hardware, software and communications that comprise a type of server-based gaming system for the purpose of offering authorized interactive games.
"Interactive gaming website."
The interactive gaming skin or skins through which an interactive gaming certificate holder or interactive gaming operator makes authorized interactive games available for play.
"Intermediary."
A person, other than an individual, which:
(1) is a holding company with respect to a corporation or other form of business organization, which holds or applies for a license under this part; and
(2) is a subsidiary with respect to any holding company.
"Issued,"
"issuance" or "issue." When used in reference to an application submitted to the State Horse Racing Commission or the State Harness Racing Commission to conduct harness or thoroughbred race meetings or the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to authorize the placement and operation of slot machines, the terms refer to the date when a determination by the commissions or the board approving an application brought before the agencies becomes final, binding and nonappealable and is not subject to a pending legal challenge.
"Key employee."
Any individual who is employed in a director or department head capacity and who is empowered to make discretionary decisions that regulate slot machine operations, table game operations, interactive gaming operations or casino simulcasting, including the general manager and assistant manager of the licensed facility, director of slot operations, director of table game operations, director of interactive gaming, director of cage and/or credit operations, director of surveillance, director of marketing, director of management information systems, director of interactive gaming system programs or other similar job classifications associated with interactive gaming and casino simulcasting, persons who manage, control or administer interactive gaming and casino simulcasting or the bets and wagers associated with authorized interactive games and casino simulcasting, director of security, comptroller and any employee who is not otherwise designated as a gaming employee and who supervises the operations of these departments or to whom these department directors or department heads report and such other positions not otherwise designated or defined under this part which the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board shall determine based on detailed analyses of job descriptions as provided in the internal controls of the licensee as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. All other gaming employees unless otherwise designated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board shall be classified as non-key employees.
"Law enforcement authority."
The power to conduct investigations of or to make arrests for criminal offenses.
"Licensed entity."
Any slot machine licensee, manufacturer licensee, supplier licensee or other person licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board under this part.
"Licensed entity representative."
A person, including an attorney, agent or lobbyist, acting on behalf of or authorized to represent the interest of any applicant, licensee, permittee or other person authorized by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to engage in any act or activity which is regulated under the provisions of this part regarding any matter before, or which may reasonably be expected to come before, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Licensed facility."
As follows:
(1) The physical land-based location at which a licensed gaming entity is authorized to place and operate slot machines and, if authorized by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board under Chapter 13A (relating to table games), to conduct table games and if authorized under Chapter 13B (relating to interactive gaming), to conduct interactive gaming. The term includes any:
(i) area of a licensed racetrack at which a slot machine licensee was previously authorized pursuant to section 1207(17) (relating to regulatory authority of board) to operate slot machines prior to the effective date of this paragraph;
(ii) board-approved interim facility or temporary facility;
(iii) area of a hotel which the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board determines is suitable to conduct table games; and
(iv) area of a licensed facility where casino simulcasting is conducted, as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
(2) The term shall not include a redundancy facility or an interactive gaming restricted area which is not located on the premises of a licensed facility as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and which is maintained and operated by an interactive gaming certificate holder in connection with interactive gaming or casino simulcasting.
"Licensed gaming entity"
or
"slot machine licensee."
A person that holds a slot machine license pursuant to this part.
"Licensed racetrack"
or
"racetrack."
The physical facility and grounds where a person has obtained a license from either the State Horse Racing Commission or the State Harness Racing Commission to conduct live thoroughbred or harness race meetings respectively with pari-mutuel wagering. The term "racetrack" or "its racetrack" shall mean the physical land-based location at which live horse racing is conducted even if not owned by the person.
"Licensed racing entity."
Any legal entity that has obtained a license to conduct live thoroughbred or harness horse race meetings respectively with pari-mutuel wagering from the State Horse Racing Commission pursuant to the Race Horse Industry Reform Act.
"Manufacturer."
A person who manufactures, builds, rebuilds, fabricates, assembles, produces, programs, designs or otherwise makes modifications to any slot machine, table game device or associated equipment or authorized interactive games for use or play of slot machines, table games or authorized interactive games in this Commonwealth for gaming purposes. The term shall not include a person who manufactures, builds, rebuilds, fabricates, assembles, produces, programs, designs or otherwise makes modifications to multi-use computing devices used in connection with the conduct of interactive gaming at a qualified airport.
"Manufacturer license."
A license issued by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board authorizing a manufacturer to manufacture or produce slot machines, table game devices or associated equipment, interactive gaming devices or associated equipment for use in this Commonwealth for gaming purposes.
"Manufacturer licensee."
A manufacturer that obtains a manufacturer license.
"Member."
An individual appointed to and sworn in as a member of the board in accordance with section 1201(b) (relating to Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board established).
"Multi-use computing device."
As follows:
(1) A computing device, including, but not limited to, a tablet computer, that:
(i) Is located and accessible to eligible passengers only in an airport gaming area.
(ii) Allows an eligible passenger to play an authorized interactive game.
(iii) Communicates with a server that is in a location approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
(iv) Is approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
(v) Has the capability of being linked to and monitored by the department's central control computer system, as applicable for any particular interactive game, in accordance with section 1323 (relating to central control computer system).
(vi) Offers a player additional functions which shall include Internet browsing, the capability of checking flight status and ordering food or beverages.
(2) The term shall not include any tablet or computing device that restricts, prohibits or is incapable of providing access to interactive gaming, interactive gaming skin or skins or interactive gaming platforms.
"Multistate agreement."
The written agreement, approved by the Governor, between the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and regulatory agencies in other states or jurisdictions for the operation of a multistate wide-area progressive slot machine system.
"Multistate wide-area progressive slot machine system."
The linking of slot machines located in this Commonwealth with slot machines located in one or more states or jurisdictions whose regulatory agencies have entered into written agreements with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for the operation of the system.
"Municipal authority."
A body politic and corporate created under the former act of June 28, 1935 (P.L.463, No.191), known as the Municipality Authorities Act of one thousand nine hundred and thirty-five, the former act of May 2, 1945 (P.L.382, No.164), known as the Municipality Authorities Act of 1945, the act of July 29, 1953 (P.L.1034, No.270), known as the Public Auditorium Authorities Law, or 53 Pa.C.S. Ch. 56 (relating to municipal authorities).
"Municipality."
A city, borough, incorporated town or township.
"Net terminal revenue."
The net amount of the gross terminal revenue less the tax and assessments imposed by sections 1402 (relating to gross terminal revenue deductions), 1403 (relating to establishment of State Gaming Fund and net slot machine revenue distribution), 1405 (relating to Pennsylvania Race Horse Development Trust Fund) and 1407 (relating to Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund).
"Nonbanking game."
Any table game in which a player competes against another player and in which the certificate holder collects a rake.
"Nongaming service provider."
A person that is not a gaming service provider or required to be licensed as a manufacturer, supplier, management company or gaming junket enterprise under this part and that provides goods or services:
(1) to a slot machine licensee or applicant for a slot machine license for use in the operation of a licensed facility; and
(2) that does not require access to the gaming floor or a gaming-related restricted area.
"Non-peer-to-peer interactive game."
An authorized interactive game in which the player does not compete against players and which is not a peer-to-peer interactive game.
"Nonprimary location."
Any facility in which pari-mutuel wagering is conducted by a licensed racing entity other than the racetrack where live racing is conducted.
"Occupation permit."
A permit authorizing an individual to be employed or work as a gaming employee at a licensed facility.
"Party."
The Bureau of Investigations and Enforcement of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board or any applicant, licensee, permittee, registrant or other person appearing of record in any proceeding before the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Peer-to-peer interactive game."
An authorized interactive game which is nonbanking, in which a player competes against one or more players and in which the interactive gaming certificate holder collects a rake.
"Permittee."
A holder of a permit issued pursuant to this part.
"Person."
Any natural person, corporation, foundation, organization, business trust, estate, limited liability company, licensed corporation, trust, partnership, limited liability partnership, association or any other form of legal business entity.
"Player."
An individual wagering cash, a cash equivalent or other thing of value in the play or operation of a slot machine, an authorized interactive game or a table game, including during a contest or tournament, the play or operation of which may deliver or entitle the individual playing or operating the slot machine, authorized interactive game or table game to receive cash, a cash equivalent or other thing of value from another player or a slot machine licensee.
"Prepaid access instrument."
A card, code, electronic serial number, mobile identification number, personal identification number or similar device that:
(1) Allows patron access to funds that have been paid in advance and can be retrieved or transferred through the use of the device.
(2) Qualifies as an access device for purposes of Regulation E issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System under 12 CFR Pt. 205 (relating to electronic fund transfers (Regulation E));
(3) Must be distributed by a slot machine licensee or its affiliates in order to be considered a cash equivalent at the slot machine licensee's licensed facility or the location of the slot machine licensee's affiliates.
(4) Must be used in conjunction with an approved cashless wagering system or electronic credit system in order to transfer funds for gaming purposes.
"Principal."
An officer; director; person who directly holds a beneficial interest in or ownership of the securities of an applicant or licensee; person who has a controlling interest in an applicant or licensee, or has the ability to elect a majority of the board of directors of a licensee or to otherwise control a licensee; lender or other licensed financial institution of an applicant or licensee, other than a bank or lending institution which makes a loan or holds a mortgage or other lien acquired in the ordinary course of business; underwriter of an applicant or licensee; or other person or employee of an applicant, slot machine licensee, manufacturer licensee or supplier licensee deemed to be a principal by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Progressive payout."
A slot machine wager payout that increases in a monetary amount based on the amounts wagered in a progressive system, including a multistate wide-area progressive slot machine system.
"Progressive system."
A computerized system linking slot machines in one or more licensed facilities within this Commonwealth and offering one or more common progressive payouts based on the amounts wagered. The term shall include a multistate wide-area progressive system.
"Publicly traded corporation."
A person, other than an individual, which:
(1) has a class or series of securities registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (48 Stat. 881, 15 U.S.C. § 78a et seq.);
(2) is a registered management company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (54 Stat. 789, 15 U.S.C. § 80a-1 et seq.); or
(3) is subject to the reporting obligations imposed by section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by reason of having filed a registration statement which has become effective under the Securities Act of 1933 (48 Stat. 74, 15 U.S.C. § 77a et seq.).
"Qualified airport."
A publicly owned commercial service airport.
"Qualified entity."
An entity which is not a Category 1, Category 2 or Category 3 slot machine licensee who may participate in an auction under section 1305.2(b.1) (relating to conduct of auctions) and who has satisfied the requirements of this part and any criteria established by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for licensure, including but not limited to, financial and character suitability requirements, and has been approved by the board.
"Race Horse Industry Reform Act."
3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 93 (relating to race horse industry reform).
"Rake."
A set fee or percentage assessed by a certificate holder for providing the services of a dealer, gaming table or location, to allow the play or operation of any nonbanking game.
"Redundancy facilities."
Any and all rooms or areas used by a slot machine licensee for emergency backup, redundancy or secondary operations attendant to interactive gaming as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Registered player."
An individual who has entered into an interactive gaming account agreement with an interactive gaming certificate holder.
"Revenue- or tourism-enhanced location."
Any location within this Commonwealth determined by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, in its discretion, which will maximize net revenue to the Commonwealth or enhance year-round recreational tourism within this Commonwealth, in comparison to other proposed facilities and is otherwise consistent with the provisions of this part and its declared public policy purposes.
"Security."
As defined in the act of December 5, 1972 (P.L.1280, No.284), known as the Pennsylvania Securities Act of 1972.
"Skill."
The knowledge, dexterity, adroitness, acumen or other mental skill of an individual.
"Skill slot machine."
A slot machine in which the skill of the player, rather than the element of chance, is the predominant factor in affecting the outcome of the game.
"Slot machine."
(1) The term includes:
(i) Any mechanical, electrical or computerized contrivance, terminal, machine or other device approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board which, upon insertion of a coin, bill, ticket, token or similar object therein or upon payment of any consideration whatsoever, including the use of any electronic payment system except a credit card or debit card, is available to play or operate, the play or operation of which, whether by reason of skill or application of the element of chance or both:
(A) May deliver or entitle the person or persons playing or operating the contrivance, terminal, machine or other device to receive cash, billets, tickets, tokens or electronic credits to be exchanged for cash or to receive merchandise or anything of value whatsoever, whether the payoff is made automatically from the machine or manually.
(B) May utilize spinning reels or video displays or both.
(C) May or may not dispense coins, tickets or tokens to winning patrons.
(D) May use an electronic credit system for receiving wagers and making payouts.
(ii) Associated equipment necessary to conduct the operation of the contrivance, terminal, machine or other device.
(iii) A skill slot machine, hybrid slot machine and the devices or associated equipment necessary to conduct the operation of a skill slot machine or hybrid slot machine.
(iv) A slot machine used in a multistate wide-area progressive slot machine system and devices and associated equipment as defined by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board through regulations.
(v) A multi-use computing device which is capable of simulating, either digitally or electronically, a slot machine.
(2) The term does not include a fantasy contest terminal within the meaning of Chapter 3.
"Slot machine contest."
A slot machine competition among players for cash, cash equivalents or prizes.
"Slot machine license."
A license issued by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board authorizing a person to place and operate slot machines pursuant to this part and the rules and regulations under this part.
"Slot machine licensee."
A person that holds a slot machine license.
"Slot machine tournament."
An organized series of slot machine contests approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board in which an overall winner is ultimately determined.
"State gaming receipts."
Revenues and receipts required by this part to be paid into the State Gaming Fund, the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development Trust Fund and the Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund, and all rights, existing on the effective date of this section or coming into existence later, to receive any of those revenues and receipts.
"State Treasurer."
The State Treasurer of the Commonwealth.
"Subsequent auction."
An auction at which a Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 slot machine licensee may submit a bid for a Category 4 license that remains available after an initial auction.
"Subsidiary."
A person other than an individual. The term includes:
(1) a corporation, any significant part of whose outstanding equity securities are owned, subject to a power or right of control, or held with power to vote, by a holding company or an intermediary company;
(2) a significant interest in a person, other than an individual, which is owned, subject to a power or right of control, or held with power to vote, by a holding company or an intermediary company; or
(3) a person deemed to be a subsidiary by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Supplier."
A person that sells, leases, offers or otherwise provides, distributes or services any slot machine, table game device or associated equipment, or interactive gaming device or associated equipment for use or play of slot machines, table games or interactive games in this Commonwealth. The term shall include a person that sells, leases, offers or otherwise provides, distributes or services any multi-use computing device as approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
"Supplier license."
A license issued by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board authorizing a supplier to provide products or services related to slot machines, table game devices or associated equipment, interactive gaming devices, including any multi-use computing device or associated equipment, to slot machine licensees for use in this Commonwealth for gaming purposes.
"Supplier licensee."
A supplier that holds a supplier license.
"Suspicious transaction."
A transaction between a slot machine licensee or an employee of a slot machine licensee and an individual that involves the acceptance or redemption by a person of cash or a cash equivalent involving or aggregating $5,000 or more which a slot machine licensee or employee of a slot machine licensee knows, suspects or has reason to believe:
(1) involves funds derived from illegal activities or is intended or conducted in order to conceal or disguise funds or assets derived from illegal activities;
(2) is part of a plan to violate or evade any law or regulation or to avoid any transaction reporting requirement under the laws or regulations of this Commonwealth or the United States, including a plan to structure a series of transactions to avoid any transaction reporting requirement under the laws or regulations of this Commonwealth or the United States; or
(3) has no apparent lawful purpose or is not the type of transaction in which a person would normally be expected to engage and the slot machine licensee or employee knows of no reasonable explanation for the transaction after examining the available facts, including the background and possible purpose of the transaction.
"Table game."
Any banking or nonbanking game approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The term includes roulette, baccarat, blackjack, poker, craps, big six wheel, mini-baccarat, red dog, pai gow, twenty-one, casino war, acey-ducey, sic bo, chuck-a-luck, Panguingue, Fan-tan, Asia poker, Boston 5 stud poker, Caribbean stud poker, Colorado hold'em poker, double attack blackjack, double cross poker, double down stud poker, fast action hold'em, flop poker, four card poker, let it ride poker, mini-craps, mini-dice, pai gow poker, pokette, Spanish 21, Texas hold'em bonus poker, three card poker, two card joker poker, ultimate Texas hold'em, winner's pot poker and any other banking or nonbanking game. The term shall not include:
(1) Lottery games of the Pennsylvania State Lottery as authorized under the act of August 26, 1971 (P.L.351, No.91), known as the State Lottery Law.
(2) Bingo as authorized under the act of July 10, 1981 (P.L.214, No.67), known as the Bingo Law.
(3) Pari-mutuel betting on the outcome of horse race meetings as authorized under the Race Horse Industry Reform Act.
(4) Small games of chance as authorized under the act of December 19, 1988 (P.L.1262, No.156), known as the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act.
(5) Slot machine gaming and progressive slot machine gaming as defined and authorized under this part.
(6) Keno.
(7) A fantasy contest terminal within the meaning of Chapter 3 (relating to fantasy contests).
(8) iLottery under Chapter 5 (relating to lottery).
"Table game device."
Includes gaming tables, cards, dice, chips, shufflers, tiles, dominoes, wheels or any mechanical, electrical or computerized contrivance, terminal, machine or other device, apparatus, equipment or supplies approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and used to conduct a table game or that is capable, through the use of digital, electronic or other communications technology, of simulating play of a table game.
"Table game operation certificate."
A certificate awarded by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board under Chapter 13A (relating to table games) that authorizes a slot machine licensee to conduct table games in accordance with this part.
"Tournament."
An organized series of contests approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board in which an overall winner is ultimately determined.
"Trustee."
A person appointed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board under section 1332 (relating to appointment of trustee) to manage and control the operations of a licensed facility and who has the fiduciary responsibility to make decisions to preserve the viability of a licensed facility and the integrity of gaming in this Commonwealth.
"Underwriter."
As defined in the act of December 5, 1972 (P.L.1280, No.284), known as the Pennsylvania Securities Act of 1972.
"Winning bid."
The single highest bid received at an auction.
"Winning bidder."
The slot machine licensee or qualified entity with the winning bid.
(Nov. 1, 2006, P.L.1243, No.135, eff. imd.; Jan. 7, 2010, P.L.1, No.1, eff. imd.; Oct. 30, 2017, P.L.419, No.42, eff. imd.)
2017 Amendment. Act 42 amended the defs. of "associated equipment," "cash equivalent," "cheat," "cheating or thieving device," "commission," "conduct of gaming," "contest," "counterfeit chip," "gaming employee," "gaming school," "gaming service provider," "key employee," "licensed facility," "licensed racing entity," "manufacturer," "manufacturer license," "net terminal revenue," "player," "progressive payout," "progressive system," "Race Horse Industry Reform Act," "slot machine," "State gaming receipts," "supplier," "supplier license," "table game" and "table game device" and added the defs. of "airport authority," "airport gaming area," "auction," "authorized interactive game," "bid," "category 4 location," "communications technology," "concession operator," "eligible passenger," "gaming floor," "gaming-related restricted area," "gross interactive airport gaming revenue," "gross interactive gaming revenue," "hybrid slot machine," "initial auction," "interactive game," "interactive gaming," "interactive gaming account," "interactive gaming account agreement," "interactive gaming agreement," "interactive gaming certificate," "interactive gaming certificate holder," "interactive gaming device," "interactive gaming license," "interactive gaming operator," "interactive gaming platform," "interactive gaming reciprocal agreement," "interactive gaming restricted area," "interactive gaming skin or skins," "interactive gaming system," "interactive gaming website," "multi-use computing device," "multistate agreement," "multistate wide-area progressive slot machine system," "nongaming service provider," "non-peer-to-peer interactive game," "peer-to-peer interactive game," "prepaid access instrument," "qualified airport," "qualified entity," "redundancy facilities," "registered player," "skill," "skill slot machine," "subsequent auction," "winning bid" and "winning bidder."
2010 Amendment. Act 1 amended the defs. of "associated equipment," "cheat," "conduct of gaming," "conviction," "gaming employee," "gross terminal revenue," "key employee," "licensed facility," "manufacturer," "manufacturer license," "slot machine," "supplier" and "supplier license" and added the defs. of "banking game," "cash," "cash equivalent," "certificate holder," "cheating or thieving device," "chip," "contest," "count room," "counterfeit chip," "electronic gaming table," "executive-level public employee," "fully automated electronic gaming table," "gaming junket," "gaming junket enterprise," "gaming junket representative," "gaming school," "gaming service provider," "gross table game revenue," "hotel," "law enforcement authority," "licensed entity representative," "municipal authority," "nonbanking game," "party," "player," "rake," "slot machine contest," "slot machine tournament," "suspicious transaction," "table game," "table game device," "table game operation certificate," "tournament" and "trustee."
2006 Amendment.
Act 135 amended the defs. of "affilate" or "affiliated company," "applicant," "controlling interest," "gross terminal revenue" and "licensed facility" and added the defs. of "compensation," "complimentary service," "conduct of gaming," "corporation," "holding company," "independent contractor," "intermediary," "member," "principal," "publicly traded corporation," "subsidiary" and "underwriter."
Cross References.
Section 1103 is referred to in sections 302, 3102 of this title; 9301 of Title 3 (Agriculture).