State police: Convenience store, restaurant, bar customers can't stick around to play video games

The state police don’t want bar patrons playing video gambling machines under normal conditions, let alone during the coronavirus pandemic.

State police have received “an influx of public inquiries related to liquor licensees allowing patrons to remain in their establishments to operate video gambling devices, sometimes marketed as ‘games of skill,’ ” according to a news release issued Thursday.

“While our position on the legality of these devices remains unchanged, ensuring public safety in the midst of the ongoing health crisis is our top priority,” said Major Jeffrey Fisher, director of the Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement. “Liquor licensees are cautioned that in addition to potential unlawful gambling charges, they are subject to citation if they fail to take steps to prevent patrons from remaining on premises to operate video gambling devices.”

Gov. Tom Wolf authorized licensed restaurants and bars to remain open during the coronavirus pandemic for the express purpose of takeout, delivery and drive-thru food and beverage service, so long as social distancing and other measures are employed to protect workers and customers.

Liquor Control officials recommend that liquor license holders and other businesses, including convenience stores and restaurants, “take the appropriate measures to discontinue the use of illegal video gambling devices and voluntarily comply with the governor’s orders to help stop the spread of covid-19.”

Since March 18, BLCE has completed nearly 13,000 checks of licensed liquor businesses in Pennsylvania, issuing 53 warnings and four citations.