Bangor Maine Debates New Slot Machine Installation
The Maine Gambling Control Board debated over Hollywood Slots’ request for new types of sot machines recently. Unfortunately for the casino, the decision as to whether or not they can have the new machines has been put off again. The Gambling Control Board is requesting additional information regarding the change before they will make a decision. The slots casino and racetrack is looking to bring “hosted” slot machines to the facility. Hosted means that the machines will be automated but rather than players placing their coins into the machine, a host of the casino will handle the actual transaction.
The “new” machines the casino wants to bring in are a hybrid of the standard slot machine and casino table games found in Las Vegas. They are akin to blackjack and poker table-style games. The Gambling Control Board said that the machines do not fit in with existing state law regarding style. That makes them exempt from being legal within the state. George McHale, Board Chairman, said that the law does not enforce who needs to put money into machines– the customer or a host– for it to be legitimate. Therefore, there is no reason to deny the request. There is a strong force that does not agree with his statement.
Some board members consider the machines to be outside of the acceptable range of slot machines. Part of the reason is that the games can accomodate a multiple number of players- up to five at the same time. Despite the multi-player capability, players would still be playing against the machine and not each other. The question is whether or not the new slots are “card games.” Many board members stated that they would be more relaxed if the state legislature and Veterans Affairs Committee made the determination. Part of the issue is board officials are not definite on whose responsibility the approval is predicated on. Some believe the state should step in, whereas others believe the Gambling Control Board has the authority to decide.
Hollywood Casino is expected to keep the number of slot machines the same, but switch out the newer machines. The newer ones are anticipated to be more lucrative and popular with the gambling public. The Gaming Board requested more time in making a decision and may even push it off on the state. Until then Hollywood Casino is left hanging on whether or not they can reorganize to make more money.
