Pennsylvania House Bill HB2213

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/26
• Refer: 2/11/26

Caption

Providing for skill video gaming; imposing duties on the Department of Revenue; providing for issuance of licenses for skill video gaming; imposing a fee and criminal and civil penalties; and providing for zoning.

Impact

One major focus of HB2213 is to generate state revenue through a licensing fee system. Each skill video game system will be subject to monthly fees that are to be allocated for public transportation and infrastructure funding. Furthermore, the bill allows a percentage of the revenue to be distributed back to counties based on their respective earnings from skill gaming operations. This provides local governments with financial support backed by the operation of skill games, addressing various community needs through additional funding avenues.

Summary

House Bill 2213, referred to as the Skill Video Gaming Act, aims to regulate the operation and use of skill video games in Pennsylvania. The bill establishes the Department of Revenue as the regulatory authority for overseeing the licensing, operation, and enforcement of skill video games. These regulations include the issuance of licenses to distributors and operators, alongside specifying the fees to be collected for maintaining these licenses. In particular, the act seeks to differentiate skill video games from traditional gambling establishments, ensuring that only skill predominate games are allowed within the state’s regulatory framework.

Contention

Despite aims for regulation, the bill has sparked controversy mainly regarding local governance and criminal enforcement. Cities, particularly those classified as first-class, gain strict enforcement prerogatives over skill gaming establishments, which could heighten regulatory tension. Critics argue that overly stringent local enforcement could inhibit business operations, while supporters maintain that such measures are necessary to prevent potential exploitation within the gaming environment. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the handling of underage players, as establishments must implement precautionary measures to restrict access to individuals under 18 years of age, thus balancing accessibility with legal compliance.