Legislation
US – Pennsylvania launches Self-Exclusion Program for VGTs
By Phil - 12 August 2019
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) will launch a self-help tool for individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from participating in gambling at Video Gaming Terminals (VGTs).
The VGT Self-Exclusion Program allows individuals to voluntarily choose one-year, five-year, or lifetime bans for this gambling activity. VGT establishments and operators must refuse wagers and deny gaming privileges, check cashing, player club membership, complimentary goods and services to any self-excluded person. They must also ensure that self-excluded persons do not receive targeted mailings, promotions, player club materials or other promotional materials relating to VGT activities.
A self-excluded person who has gambled on a VGT while on the self-exclusion list may not collect in any manner or in any proceeding any winnings or recover any losses arising as a result of any gaming activity for the entire period of time that the person is on the Self-Exclusion List. Any winnings issued to, found on or about or redeemed by a self-excluded person shall be remitted to the PGCB and are used towards its responsible gambling programs. If a person violates the terms of self-exclusion, they may be subject to arrest.
The launch of VGTs at several qualified truck stops in the Commonwealth is expected to begin later this month. A qualified truck stop establishment is permitted to operate up to five VGTs that can be used only by individuals at least 21 years of age.
Self-Exclusion Programs for internet-based gambling are separate from the existing casino Self-Exclusion Program. Individuals who are interested in self-banning from Pennsylvania casinos must appear in person to a Gaming Control Board office including those in each casino. Signup for the internet-based gambling Self-Exclusion Programs can also be done in person at a Gaming Control Board office.
