The problem of video lottery machines has once again raised its head, this time in the US state of Iowa where legislative leaders have declared themselves unwilling to await a task force report before taking action. Iowa, in a bid to make its lottery more profitable, sanctioned the introduction of TouchPlay machines and has come to the uncomfortable conclusion that this form of lottery is too successful.

There are an estimated 4,600 TouchPlay machines in Iowa and the state will profit by around US$45 million a year. The outcome of the proliferation of lottery terminals is that casinos are concerned for their revenue and the anti-gambling chorus is rising. Cosmetically there is little difference between a slot machine and a TouchPlay lottery machine. The technical difference is that the lottery pays, with the push of a button, predetermined winners just as a scratch card, whilst the slot machines pay out randomly.

The ethical difference between the two machines is what perplexes many a legislative body, and has led to some strange decisions globally on what forms of gambling are permissible and others banned. The Governor of Iowa has put a moratorium in place on the installation of the TouchPlay machines and ordered a task force to report in 60 days. There is pressure to get the machines placed under the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Meanwhile ways are being investigated to ensure that access by minors is impossible and to limit machine numbers.

In countries such as Mexico casinos are not allowed and yet there are hundreds of ‘yak’ (bingo terminals) locations functioning. There is a similar situation in Korea where all but one casino is for foreigners-only but AWP venues are widespread. In Britain FOBTs appear on every high street. It would appear that every jurisdiction around the world has its own take on what constitutes perilous gambling and what mere amusement. The players pay their money and take their choice, whether informed or not.
(E-01.17.06)

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