Internet cafes evolved from sweepstakes cafes, which gave people a chance to win prizes with the purchase of products and services such as Internet time and calling cards. Cafes have come under intense scrutiny, with former Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine saying they circumvent the law with machines that look and operate similar to illegal slot machines.
A state law that went into effect in 2013 prohibits cafes from offering prizes, and in 2014 the Ohio General Assembly passed a law giving the Ohio Casino Control Commission authority over internet cafes. Cyber cafes must be licensed and use only skills approved by the commission. Base Amusement Machine (SBAM).
“Illegal gambling establishments have a long history of masquerading as legitimate SBAM operators, and the Commission’s regulatory framework is designed to make it easier to identify and shut down establishments operating in violation of the law. ,” said Jessica Franks, director of communications for the state of Ohio. Casino Management Committee.
What is a skill-based amusement machine?
Franks said legal skill-based gaming machines include classic arcade games, pinball, crane/crane machines, and those found in family entertainment centers that give players tickets that can be redeemed for prizes. It includes games.
“Game outcomes must be based solely on player skill. These games may only offer players merchandise prizes or vouchers redeemable for merchandise prizes not exceeding a wholesale value of $10 per play. ,” she said.
Prizes cannot include cash, gift cards, digital currency, or the like. We also cannot award vouchers that can be redeemed for betting games, lottery tickets, bingo or instant bingo, firearms, tobacco, alcohol, or any other prohibited prizes. However, gas cards that can only be used to purchase gasoline are allowed.
What types of SBAM are there?
The Ohio Casino Control Commission divides SBAM into three categories:
- Type A: Games where players do not receive prizes as rewards for playing the game, except for free replays, such as pinball or arcade-style games.
- Type-B: Games where players use their skills to win prizes contained throughout the machine, such as crane games or crane games.
- Type C: Redemption-style games where players redeem tickets, tokens, or vouchers given by machines to win prizes (such as pop-a-shot basketball or skee-ball)
“Currently, 452 games are approved for use in the state of Ohio,” Franks said.
How to ask for help
The Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline (800-589-9966) provides assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
