News that slot machines are embracing recent advances in technology and going coinless on US military bases may be of little interest to some, but the fact that the new cost-cutting measures will boost dividends to the military Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) budgets at home and abroad might raise an eyebrow or two amongst those who consider gambling to be diametrically opposed to anyone’s welfare. Independent of gambling laws in the countries or states where US military bases are found, slot machines have long been seen as a permissible recreational pursuit.

From time to time the activity receives some coverage when issues arise of underage gambling by recruits or insufficient oversight to prevent problem gambling. The military takes the view that the slot machines are on bases solely for entertainment, just as video games. This view is supported by a 2001 congressional report, “The Effect of the Ready Availability of Slot Machines on Members of the Armed Forces, Their Dependents and Others” that stated that the MWR slot machines had no negative effect on the morale or financial stability of US forces, their family members or civilian employees.

Many in the gaming industry would wish that governments would come out with such a categorical statement on availability having no negative effect in the broader commercial arena of slot machine operations. With the ready availability of lottery tickets and the ‘paper slot machines’ (instant lottery scratch cards) it would seem that many governments around the world are of that opinion when gambling is funding their budgets. However, they are quick to apply double standards when it comes to licensing casino and slot machine operations, citing concerns for social welfare in imposing bans and limitations.

Gambling in the US military, as everything else, is a case apart. One MWR facility at a US base in Japan has recently spent US$280,000 on 28 coinless slot machines. The slot machines must be popular entertainment indeed to make using that amount of MWR funds available for the purchase. Those previously in charge of the ‘count’ and ‘fill’ with all the dimes, nickels and quarters will doubtless heave a sigh of relief that technology has advanced. That technology allows for gaming uninterrupted by coin payouts and hopper refills. Another military base in Japan, where gambling revenue is already around US$10 million, will be opening a newly renovated coinless casino. The Morale, Welfare and Recreation of American troops are all about to get a boost. (E-12.08.05)

© Copyright 2005 CasinoCompendium



>>> return to archives
>>> return to frontpage