Chile bans use of slot machines outside casinos

A new gaming bill has banned the use of slot machines outside casinos in Chile. Operators breaking the rules will face a fine and a prison sentence.

The proposed bill

A bill has banned the operation of gambling machines outside legally regulated casinos in Chile. It was passed by a majority in the Senate with 29 votes in favour and 7 abstentions. It will now be sent to the Lower House and scrutinised by the Chamber of Representatives.

The Senate addressed the elimination of any slot machine or “skill machine”. This is further defined as “any electronic system capable of receiving bets, which grants the user a time of use, and grants prize money through a randomly generated algorithm.” Any permit to operate one of these machines must be “in no way may be extended to games of this type made online”.

The proposed bill also plans to regulate the sale and destruction of gambling machines in the country. Authorised operators must keep a record of these machines in keeping with rules and regulations outlined by regulators. They can also only be destroyed by waste managers with the relevant authorisation to do so.

A hefty punishment 

Operators caught breaking these rules will face a substantial punishment. The law proposes minor imprisonment and a fine of $10.4 million (£10,037) for anyone exploiting slot machines reserved for a licensed casino operator.

The bill also outlines a series of prison terms for crimes involving illicit money laundering and illegal operation of activities reserved for gambling casinos.