RULES AND REGULATIONS
Title 58—RECREATION
PENNSYLVANIA GAMING CONTROL BOARD
[ 58 PA. CODE CHS. 461a, 463a, 464a, 465a,
607a, 627a, 629a, 631a AND 633a ]
Slot Machine and Table Game Device Testing and Control; Possession of Slot Machines and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Tables; Slot Machine Tournaments; Accounting and Internal Controls; Possession of Table Game and Table Game Devices; Rules of Play
[44 Pa.B. 599]
[Saturday, February 1, 2014]The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (Board), under the general authority in 4 Pa.C.S. § 1202(b)(30) (relating to general and specific powers) and the specific authority in 4 Pa.C.S. §§ 1207(3), (6), (9) and (21) and 13A02(1), (2) and (4) (relating to regulatory authority of board; and regulatory authority), amends Chapters 461a, 463a, 465a, 627a, 629a, 631a and 633a and adds Chapters 464a and 607a (relating to slot machine tournaments; and possession of table games and table game devices) to read as set forth in Annex A.
Purpose of the Final-Form Rulemaking
This final-form rulemaking amends the requirements for the termination, transfer or modification of progressive jackpots, requires operators to provide monthly table game device master lists to the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations (Bureau), codifies Board policy on slot machine tournaments and adds an additional side wager to the Baccarat games.
§ 461a.1. Definitions
The definitions added in this section are moved from § 461a.12 (relating to progressive slot machines).
§ 461a.8. Gaming vouchers
Although operators are required to file a report with the State Treasurer regarding old gaming vouchers that will escheat to the Commonwealth, operators are no longer required to submit a copy of that report to the Board.
§ 461a.12. Progressive slot machines
The definitions of ''progressive slot machine'' and ''wide area progressive system'' are moved from subsection (a) to § 461a.1 (relating to definitions) as these definitions are applicable to all sections in the chapter. Subsections (b)—(f) and (h) are amended for clarity.
Subsection (k) requires operators to receive written approval from the Bureau prior to capping or transferring a progressive jackpot. Additionally, operators may transfer progressive jackpots to machines with the same or similar probability of winning.
Subsection (k)(5) now states that if a transfer cannot be made slot machine licensees may remove the progressive functionality, change the game theme or permanently remove the machine from the gaming floor. This section is amended to ensure that progressive jackpots are not taken off the gaming floor if they can be transferred and not without prior approval from the Bureau. Additionally, final-form subsection (l) ensures that progressive jackpots that are removed are not simply returned to the gaming floor with lower reset amounts within a short period of time after removal. The remaining sections are renumbered.
§ 461a.26. Testing and software installation on the live gaming floor
The Board adds four types of electronic devices that require Bureau testing and approval prior to placement on the live gaming floor.
Chapter 463a. Possession of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables
This chapter addresses the requirements for the possession of slot machines in this Commonwealth. Fully automated electronic gaming tables, which are more similar to slot machines that do not have a dealer than other types of table games, are added to the requirements in this chapter. Operators are required to include fully automated electronic gaming tables to the slot machine master device list which operators are required to submit to the Bureau monthly.
Chapter 464a. Slot machine tournaments
This chapter codifies a Board policy known to the industry as § 461b.6. This policy was not published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. The policy allowing operators to conduct tournaments was submitted to the industry on November 23, 2011, and was subsequently updated to allow for the charging of fees. This chapter reflects the current policy, submitted to the industry on March 21, 2012, without substantive revisions.
Operators shall submit a notice of intent to conduct a tournament to the Board as well as the Department of Revenue (Department) 10 days prior to the start of the tournament. In accordance with statutory provisions, operators may charge a fee to enter tournaments provided that the revenue generated is reported to the Department. Operators have discretion to establish rules of entry and prize structures provided that the rules are specified in the notice and provided to patrons who participate in the tournament.
§ 465a.2. Internal control systems and audit protocols
A minor amendment updates the name of the form that operators complete when submitting updated internal controls. Additionally, the language regarding the submission of changes to internal controls to the Department is deleted. The Department is sent only initial internal control submissions prior to a casino opening.
§ 465a.19. Acceptance of tips or gratuities from patrons
Language is added in subsection (d) which allows dealers to accept as a tip a winning wager that a patron has identified as a tip prior to play provided, however, that the tip shall be collected and deposited after the round of play or after a roll of the dice in craps that decides the outcome of the wager. A dealer is not allowed to subsequently wager a winning tip.
§ 465a.33. Access to areas containing central control computer equipment
A minor amendment was made to the key control requirements for access to the central control computer system.
Chapter 607a. Possession of table games and table game devices
This chapter addresses the possession of table games and table game devices. This chapter is similar to Chapter 463a (relating to possession of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables). Section 607a.1 (relating to transportation of table games and table game devices into, within and out of this Commonwealth) requires persons transporting table games or table game devices to notify the Bureau and the Bureau of Casino Compliance that equipment is being shipped. Section 607a.2 (relating to table game device master list) requires operators to provide a monthly table game master list for certain table game equipment enumerated in subsection (a).
Section 607a.3 (relating to off premises storage of table games and table game devices) requires operators to obtain approval prior to storing table games or table game devices in locations other than the licensed facility. These provisions are consistent with the requirements applicable to slot machines.
Chapter 627a. Minibaccarat
Chapter 629a. Midibaccarat
Chapter 631a. Baccarat
Panda 8, a new side wager, is added for the Baccarat type games. The sections on layout, wager and payout odds are amended accordingly.
§ 633a.13. Payout odds; payout limitation
The payout table applicable to the hit and run progressive wager for Blackjack is corrected in subsection (l)(1).
Additional Revisions
§ 461a.5. Slot machine conversions
A minor revision was made in this section to reflect that § 463a.6 is rescinded and the requirements were moved and combined with § 463a.4 (relating to notice and connection to the central control computer system).
§ 461a.12. Progressive slot machines
In subsection (b)(7), the proposed language regarding progressive controllers that are not stored in a slot machine was replaced. Operators should have greater flexibility as to which departments will be responsible for key control provided that slot operations controls one key. Additionally, the licensee shall notify the Bureau if the progressive controller not located in a machine is to be accessed.
In subsection (k)(1), language was added stating that if the operator is going to place a cap on the progressive jackpot amount, the operator shall receive written approval from the Bureau prior to imposing the payout limit. These approvals are done electronically, typically by e-mail.
The proposed language in subsection (k)(5)(ii) was amended for clarity.
Language in final-form subsection (n) was deleted. The deleted language in this subsection is unnecessary as the requirements for transfers is addressed in subsection (k)(4).
§ 463a.1. Possession of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables generally
Language in subsection (d) regarding the time period for Board approval of educational institutions, unlicensed manufacturers/suppliers and other persons to possess slot machines and electronic gaming tables was deleted. A request to possess slots and tables by persons, other than licensed entities, is treated like a petition. When a petition is filed it is answered by the Office of Enforcement Counsel within 30 days. Only after the Office of Enforcement Counsel answers a petition is it ready for the Board's consideration at an upcoming public meeting. Depending on the public meeting schedule, it may be more than 60 days before the Board can act on a request.
Subsection (e) is amended to allow the Board's designee (the Executive Director) to approve an alternative location to store slots and fully automated tables.
§ 463a.2. Transportation of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables into, within and out of this Commonwealth
Many slot machine licensees now have approved, off premises storage locations for their extra slot machines and fully automated tables. However, the language in this section formerly only addressed movements from one person to another person. An additional requirement was added in subsection (b) to ensure that the Bureau and the onsite Casino Compliance representatives are notified when a shipment is coming in from or going out to an off premises storage location operated by the slot machine licensee. The same shipment notification requirement was added in § 607a.1.
§ 463a.4. Notice and connection to the central control computer system
The requirements in this section and formerly in rescinded § 463a.6 related to each other and were therefore combined into § 463a.4. Section 463a.6 is rescinded in this final-form rulemaking.
§ 463a.7. Off premises storage of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables
Amendments were made to the information a slot machine licensee is required to submit as part of its request to store slots and tables in an off premises storage location. Operators will no longer be required to specify in the request the expected arrival and departure dates for the machines stored in the off premises location. This language was deleted as unnecessary since slots and tables may move in and out of the storage location many times depending on the business needs of the licensee. Similar proposed language regarding table games was deleted in § 607a.3.
§ 607a.1. Transportation of table games and table game devices into, within and out of this Commonwealth
A minor revision was made in subsection (a) for consistency with the title of the section and for consistency with § 463a.2 (relating to transportation of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables into, within and out of this Commonwealth).
§ 607a.2. Table game device master list
Language was added in subsection (b)(3) requiring that operators include in their master list a notation if tables on the gaming floor offer a progressive or linked progressive. This is extremely important because table game progressive jackpots are funded solely through player wagers (minus any seed amount funded from the facility). If a facility is going to remove a table that has a progressive, the restrictions on removal in § 605a.7 (relating to progressive table game systems) would be applicable. Including the progressive in the master list is another mechanism to ensure that all progressives are accounted for on a monthly basis.
§ 633a.7. Procedure for dealing the cards; completion of each round of play
A minor revision was made in subsection (o)(2)(ii)(B) to reflect that the payout odds for the Hit and Run Progressive Wager in § 633a.13(l)(1) (relating to payout odds; payout limitation) were corrected.
Comment and Response Summary
Notice of proposed rulemaking was published at 42 Pa.B. 6761 (October 27, 2012). During the comment period, the Board received comments from slot machine licensee Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment, d/b/a Parx Casino (Parx). The Board did not receive comments from the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC).
Public Comment
Parx commented on the proposed rulemaking and requested clarification on the interplay between two provisions regarding transfer and termination of progressive jackpots in § 461a.12(k).
The current regulations provide operators with options regarding the movement of progressive jackpots. Operators can cap the progressive amount at a certain level, terminate the jackpot when a patron wins the jackpot amount, remove several linked progressives as long as one progressive remains on the floor, transfer the jackpot amount or terminate the progressive. If an operator were terminating a progressive jackpot, the current regulations require operators to simply notify the Board, without approval required, and post notice of the termination on the machine.
Many operators have taken large numbers of progressive jackpots off their gaming floors resulting in many patron complaints to the Board. The Board therefore believes it necessary to amend the process to terminate progressive jackpots. The language added in the proposed and final-form rulemakings in subsection (k)(5) will still allow for the termination of jackpots in those instances in which a transfer cannot otherwise be made or if there is good cause to remove the jackpots. Operators will need approval from Bureau staff prior to posting the 30-day removal notice on a progressive slot machine. Requests and subsequent approvals are typically handled electronically.
Lastly, former § 461a.12(k)(4) required that if operators were to transfer a progressive jackpot, the jackpot amount would have to be transferred in its entirety. Parx requested clarification regarding what portion of the jackpot amount would have to be transferred.
It was the intention of the Board to include only the accrued amount on the meter minus the seed or reset amount contributed by the licensee in the amount transferred to another jackpot. Clarifying language has been added to this section.
Affected Parties
Slot machine licensees, persons transporting table games and devices (typically licensed manufacturers) and table games dealers will be impacted by this final-form rulemaking.
Fiscal Impact
Commonwealth. It is not anticipated that this final-form rulemaking will have a fiscal impact on the Board or other Commonwealth agencies.
Political subdivisions. This final-form rulemaking will not have fiscal impact on political subdivisions of this Commonwealth.
Private sector. Slot machine licensees will be required to provide notice of slot machine tournaments and a monthly table game device master list. Additionally, persons transporting table games and table game devices (manufacturers, suppliers and slot machine licensees) into, within and out of this Commonwealth will be required to notify the Bureau and the Bureau of Casino Compliance of the shipment. It is anticipated that the fiscal impact on the private sector, to prepare notices, would be negligible.
General public. This final-form rulemaking will not have fiscal impact on the general public.
Paperwork Requirements
This final-form rulemaking will eliminate the need to file with the Board copies of reports that are submitted to the State Treasurer regarding gaming vouchers.
This final-form rulemaking will require operators to submit a monthly table game device master lists for tables and specified table game equipment. The monthly list is an online submission.
Operators that would like to conduct slot machine tournaments will be required to submit to the Board and the Department a notice specifying the rules of entry and the prize structure. This notice is also submitted online.
Effective Date
This final-form rulemaking will become effective upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
Regulatory Review
Under section 5(a) of the Regulatory Review Act (71 P. S. § 745.5(a)), on September 17, 2012, the Board submitted a copy of the notice of proposed rulemaking, published at 42 Pa.B. 6761, to IRRC and the Chairpersons of the House Gaming Oversight Committee and the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee for review and comment.
Under section 5(c) of the Regulatory Review Act, IRRC and the House and Senate Committees were provided with copies of the comments received during the public comment period, as well as other documents when requested. In preparing the final-form rulemaking, the Department has considered all comments from IRRC, the House and Senate Committees and the public.
Under section 5.1(j.2) of the Regulatory Review Act (71 P. S. § 745.5a(j.2)), on December 11, 2013, the final-form rulemaking was deemed approved by the House and Senate Committees. Under section 5.1(e) of the Regulatory Review Act, IRRC met on December 12, 2013, and approved the final-form rulemaking.
Findings
The Board finds that:
(1) Public notice of intention to adopt these amendments was given under sections 201 and 202 of the act of July 31, 1968 (P. L. 769, No. 240) (45 P. S. §§ 1201 and 1202) and the regulations thereunder, 1 Pa. Code §§ 7.1 and 7.2.
(2) The final-form rulemaking is necessary and appropriate for the administration and enforcement of 4 Pa.C.S. Part II (relating to gaming).
Order
The Board, acting under 4 Pa.C.S. Part II, orders that:
(a) The regulations of the Board, 58 Pa. Code, are amended by adding §§ 464a.1, 464a.2 and 607a.1—607a.3, by deleting § 463a.6 and by amending §§ 461a.1, 461a.5, 461a.8, 461a.12, 461a.13, 461a.26, 463a.1—463a.5, 463a.7, 465a.2, 465a.19, 465a.33, 627a.1, 627a.2, 627a.7, 627a.11, 627a.12, 629a.1, 629a.2, 629a.7, 629a.11, 629a.12, 631a.1, 631a.2, 631a.8, 631a.12, 631a.13, 633a.7 and 633a.13 to read as set forth in Annex A, with ellipses referring to the existing text of the regulations.
(Editor's Note: Sections 461a.5 and 633a.7 were not included in the proposed rulemaking published at 42 Pa.B. 6761. Section 463a.6, which was proposed to be amended in the proposed rulemaking, is rescinded in Annex A.)
(Editor's Note: Final-form rulemaking 125-166 also amends §§ 627a.2, 627a.7, 627a.12, 629a.2, 629a.7, 629a.12, 631a.2, 631a.8, 631a.13, 633a.7 and 633a.13. See 44 Pa.B. 619 (February 1, 2014).)
(b) The Chairperson of the Board shall certify this order and Annex A and deposit them with the Legislative Reference Bureau as required by law.
(c) This order shall take effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
WILLIAM H. RYAN, Jr.,
Chairperson(Editor's Note: For the text of the order of the Independent Regulatory Review Commission relating to this document, see 43 Pa.B. 7606 (December 28, 2013).)
Fiscal Note: Fiscal Note 125-162 remains valid for the final adoption of the subject regulations.
Annex A
TITLE 58. RECREATION
PART VII. GAMING CONTROL BOARD
Subpart E. SLOT MACHINES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER 461a. SLOT MACHINE AND TABLE GAME DEVICE TESTING AND CONTROL § 461a.1. Definitions.
The following words and terms, when used in this subpart, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
* * * * * Progressive awards—The award to be paid out when the event in the progressive game that triggered the award occurs.
Progressive controller—A program or computer system, other than an approved program that controls the operation of the slot machine, which controls, adjusts and displays the amount of the progressive jackpot.
Progressive payout—A slot machine payout that increases in a monetary amount based on the amounts wagered in a progressive system.
Progressive slot machine—A slot machine that offers a jackpot that may increase in value based upon the slot machine wagers placed.
Pseudo random number generator—Software or hardware, or both, that ensures the randomness of slot machine outcomes.
* * * * * Wide area progressive system—Progressive slot machines located at a licensed facility that are linked with progressive slot machines at another licensed facility.
§ 461a.5. Slot machine conversions.
A slot machine licensee shall:
(1) Maintain complete and accurate records of all conversions.
(2) Give prior notice of a slot machine conversion to the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations in writing.
(3) Notice the Department in accordance with § 463a.4 (relating to notice and connection to the central control computer system).
§ 461a.8. Gaming vouchers.
* * * * * (d) Prior to issuing a gaming voucher, a slot machine licensee shall establish a system of internal controls for the issuance and redemption of gaming vouchers. The internal controls shall be submitted and approved by the Board under § 465a.2 (relating to internal control systems and audit protocols) and address:
(1) Procedures for assigning a slot machine's asset number and identifying other redemption locations in the system, and enabling and disabling voucher capabilities for slot machines and redemption locations.
(2) Procedures for issuance, modification and termination of a unique system account for each user in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(3) Procedures used to configure and maintain user passwords in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(4) Procedures for restricting special rights and privileges, such as administrator and override capabilities, in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(5) The duties and responsibilities of the information technology, internal audit, slot operations and finance departments, respectively, and the level of access for each position with regard to the gaming voucher system.
(6) A description of physical controls on all critical hardware such as locks and surveillance, including the location and security protocols applicable to each piece of equipment.
(7) Procedures for the backup and timely recovery of critical data in accordance with technical standards under § 461b.3.
(8) Logs used to document and maintain the details of Board-approved hardware and software modifications upon implementation.
(9) Procedures for the payment of the value of unredeemed gaming vouchers, which individually or in the aggregate equal $25 or more, to a patron whose identity can be determined by the slot machine licensee using the slot machine licensee's player tracking system.
(10) Procedures for the retention, tracking and payment of the value of unredeemed gaming vouchers to the State Treasurer as required by Article XIII.1 of The Fiscal Code (72 P. S. §§ 1301.1—1301.28a) regarding the disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property.
(e) The system of internal controls required to be submitted and approved by the Board under subsection (d) must also include the procedures to be applied in the following instances:
* * * * * § 461a.12. Progressive slot machines.
(a) A progressive slot machine may stand alone or be linked with other progressive slot machines.
(b) Each slot machine that offers a progressive jackpot must have:
(1) A progressive meter, visible from the front of the slot machine, which may increase in value based upon wagers, that advises the player of the amount which can be won if the player receives the combination on the slot machine that awards the progressive jackpot.
(2) A slot machine paid progressive payout meter in accordance with § 461a.7(g) (relating to slot machine minimum design standards).
(3) A slot attendant paid progressive payout meter in accordance with § 461a.7(g).
(4) A cumulative progressive payout meter that continuously and automatically records the total value of progressive jackpots paid directly by the slot machine or by a slot attendant.
(5) A key and key switch or other reset mechanism to reset the progressive meter or meters.
(6) A key locking the compartment housing the progressive meter or meters or other means by which to preclude any unauthorized alterations to the progressive meters. The key or alternative security method must be different than the key or reset mechanism in paragraph (5).
(7) If the progressive controller is not secured in a slot machine, the progressive controller:
(i) Must be maintained in a secure area approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations.
(ii) Must be dual key controlled with one key controlled by the slot operations department and the other key controlled by a different designated department with no incompatible functions, as specified in the licensee's internal controls.
(iii) May not be accessed until the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations is electronically notified.
(c) In addition to the requirements in subsection (b), a slot machine that is connected to a common progressive meter for the purpose of offering the same progressive jackpot on two or more slot machines must:
(1) Have the same probability of hitting the combination that will award the progressive jackpot as every other slot machine linked to the common progressive meter.
(2) Require that the same amount in wager be invested to entitle the player to a chance at winning the progressive jackpot and that each increase in wager increment the progressive meter by the same rate of progression as every other slot machine linked to the common progressive meter.
(d) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (c), two or more linked slot machines offering the same progressive jackpot may be of different denominations or have different wagers, or both, required to win the progressive jackpot, provided that:
(1) The probability of winning the progressive jackpot is directly proportional to the wager required to win that jackpot.
(2) Notice indicating the proportional probability of hitting the progressive jackpot on the linked progressive system is conspicuously displayed on each linked slot machine.
(e) A slot machine licensee seeking to utilize a linked slot machine shall submit for approval in accordance with § 461a.4 (relating to submission for testing and approval) the location and manner of installing any progressive meter display mechanism.
(f) A slot machine that offers a progressive jackpot may not be placed on the gaming floor until the slot machine licensee or, as applicable, the slot system operator, has submitted the following to the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations for review and approval in accordance with § 461a.4:
(1) The initial and reset amounts at which the progressive meter or meters will be set.
(2) The proposed system for controlling the keys and applicable logical access controls to the slot machines.
(3) The proposed rate of progression for each progressive jackpot.
(4) The proposed limit for the progressive jackpot, if any.
(5) The calculated probability of winning each progressive jackpot. The probability may not exceed 50 million to 1. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this paragraph does not apply to a jackpot with a probability that may exceed 50 million to 1 during the game cycle due solely to the intervening occurrence of free play awards between the activation of a play and the award of the jackpot.
(g) A slot machine that offers either a new progressive jackpot or undergoes a modification or RAM clear of an existing progressive jackpot may not be made available for play by the public until the slot machine has been tested and certified by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations. For purposes of this subsection, a modification includes any change in the software, hardware, including controllers, and any associated equipment that relates to progressive functionality.
(h) Progressive jackpot meters may not be turned back to a lesser amount unless one of the following occurs:
(1) The amount indicated has been actually paid to a winning patron and the progressive jackpot amount has been recorded in accordance with a system of internal controls approved under § 465a.2 (relating to internal control systems and audit protocols).
(2) With written approval, the progressive jackpot has been transferred to another progressive slot machine or wide area progressive system in accordance with subsection (k)(4).
(3) The change is necessitated by a slot machine or meter malfunction. An explanation for the change shall be entered on the progressive slot summary required under this subpart and the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations shall be notified of the resetting in writing.
(i) Once an amount appears on a progressive meter, the probability of hitting the combination that will award the progressive jackpot may not be decreased unless the progressive jackpot has been won by a patron, has been transferred to another progressive slot machine or wide area progressive system or has been removed in accordance with subsection (k).
(j) When a slot machine has a progressive meter with digital limitations on the meter, the slot machine licensee shall set a limit on the progressive jackpot not to exceed the display capability of the progressive meter.
(k) A slot machine licensee or, as applicable, a slot system operator, may limit, transfer or terminate a progressive jackpot offered on a gaming floor only under the following circumstances:
(1) A slot machine licensee may establish a payout limit for a progressive jackpot provided that the payout limit is greater than the then current payout amount on the progressive jackpot meter. The slot machine licensee shall provide notice to and receive written approval from the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations prior to the imposition of a payout limit on a progressive meter or a modification thereto.
(2) A slot machine licensee may terminate a progressive jackpot concurrent with the winning of the progressive jackpot provided its slot machine program or progressive controller was configured prior to the winning of the progressive jackpot to establish a fixed reset amount with no progressive increment.
(3) A slot machine licensee may immediately and permanently remove one or more linked slot machines from a gaming floor, provided that:
(i) When the slot machine is part of a wide area progressive system offered at multiple licensed facilities, the slot machine licensee retains at least one linked slot machine offering the same progressive jackpot on its gaming floor.
(ii) When the progressive jackpot is only offered in a single licensed facility, at least two linked slot machines offering the same progressive jackpot remain on the gaming floor.
(4) A slot machine licensee may transfer a progressive jackpot amount on a stand alone slot machine or the common progressive jackpot on an entire link of slot machines with a common progressive meter, including a wide area progressive system, from a gaming floor provided the slot machine licensee receives written approval from the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations prior to the transfer and the accrued amount minus the seed amount of the progressive jackpot is:
(i) Transferred in its entirety.
(ii) Transferred to one of the following:
(A) The progressive meter for a slot machine or wide area progressive system with the same or similar probability of winning the progressive jackpot, the same or lower wager requirement to be eligible to win the progressive jackpot, and the same type of progressive jackpot (cash, annuity, annuity/cash option or a combination/alternate jackpot).
(B) The progressive meters of two separate slot machines or wide area progressive systems, provided that each slot machine or wide area progressive system to which the jackpot is transferred individually satisfies the requirements of clause (A).
(iii) Notice of intent to transfer the progressive jackpot is conspicuously displayed on the front of each slot machine for at least 30 days.
(5) If a transfer cannot be made in accordance with subsection (k)(4) or with good cause shown, a slot machine licensee may remove progressive functionality, change the game theme or permanently remove a stand alone progressive slot machine, an entire link of slot machines with a common progressive jackpot or an entire wide area progressive system from a gaming floor, provided:
(i) Notice of intent to remove the progressive slot machines or wide area progressive systems is conspicuously displayed on the front of each slot machine for at least 30 days.
(ii) Prior to posting the notice of intent required under subsection (k)(5)(i), the slot machine licensee receives written approval from the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations to remove the progressive slot machines or wide area progressive systems.
(l) Progressive slot machines and wide area progressive systems removed from the gaming floor in accordance with subsection (k)(5) may not be returned to the gaming floor for 90 days.
(m) The amount indicated on the progressive meter or meters and coin in meter on each slot machine governed by subsection (b) shall be recorded on a progressive slot summary report at least once every 7 calendar days and each report shall be signed by the preparer. If not prepared by the finance department, the progressive slot summary report shall be forwarded to the finance department by the end of the gaming day on which it is prepared. A representative of the finance department shall be responsible for calculating the correct amount that should appear on a progressive meter. If an adjustment to the progressive meters is necessary, the adjustment shall be made by a member of the slot operations department as follows:
(1) Supporting documentation shall be maintained to explain any addition or reduction in the registered amount on the progressive meter. The documentation must include the date, asset number of the slot machine, the amount of the adjustment and the signatures of the finance department member requesting the adjustment and of the slot operations department member making the adjustment.
(2) The adjustment must be effectuated within 48 hours of the meter reading.
(n) Except as otherwise authorized by this section, a slot machine offering a progressive jackpot that is temporarily removed from the gaming floor shall be returned to active play or replaced on the gaming floor within 5 gaming days. The amount on the progressive meter or meters on the returned or replacement slot machine may not be less than the amount on the progressive meter or meters at the time of removal. This subsection does not apply to the temporary removal by a slot machine licensee, for a period not to exceed 30 days, of all linked slot machines that are part of a particular wide area progressive system, provided that the progressive jackpot offered by the temporarily removed slot machines remains available on slot machines that are part of the same wide area progressive system in another licensed facility.
(o) When a slot machine is located adjacent to a slot machine offering a progressive jackpot, the slot machine licensee shall conspicuously display a notice advising patrons that the slot machine is not participating in the progressive jackpot of the adjacent slot machine.
§ 461a.13. Wide area progressive systems.
(a) Two or more slot machine licensees may, with the prior written approval of the Board as required under subsection (c), operate a wide area progressive system.
* * * * * § 461a.26. Testing and software installation on the live gaming floor.
(a) Prior to the testing of slot machines, table game devices as described in § 461a.4(c)(12) (relating to submission for testing and approval), associated equipment and displays on a live gaming floor during a slot machine licensee's normal hours of operation, the slot machine licensee shall notify the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance in writing at least 72 hours prior to the test date and receive the required approvals from the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations prior to beginning testing. The notification must include the following:
(1) A detailed narrative description of the type of testing to be conducted, including the reason for the testing, a list of individuals conducting the testing and the slot machine licensee's procedures for conducting the testing.
(2) The date, time and approximate duration of the testing.
(3) The model, slot machine location number and asset number of the slot machine or machines or table game device to be tested.
(4) The location within the licensed facility where the testing will occur.
(b) A slot machine licensee shall notify the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance at least 72 hours prior to the installation of any new software or the installation of any change in previously approved software and receive the required approvals prior to the installation of:
(1) Automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machines.
(2) Wide area progressive systems.
(3) Slot monitoring systems.
(4) Casino management systems.
(5) Player tracking systems.
(6) External bonusing systems.
(7) Cashless funds transfer systems.
(8) Server supported slot systems.
(9) Server based slot systems.
(10) Automated jackpot payout machines.
(11) Electronic gaming tables.
(12) Fully automated electronic gaming tables.
(13) Progressive table game systems.
(14) Electronic wagering systems.
(15) Additional automated bill breaker machines, automated gaming voucher and coupon redemption machines, automated jackpot payout machines and automated teller machines on the gaming floor.
(16) Gaming voucher systems.
(17) Server supported slot systems.
(18) Server based slot systems.
(c) The notification required under subsection (b) must include:
(1) A description of the reasons for the new installation or change in previously approved software.
(2) A list of the current computer components, software identifications or versions that are to be modified or replaced.
(3) A list of the proposed computer components, software identifications or versions that will modify or replace the existing components or software.
(4) The method to be used to complete the proposed installation.
(5) The date and time that the proposed modification will be installed and the estimated time for completion.
(6) The name, title and employer of the persons performing the installation.
(7) The plan to handle disruptions, if any, to the gaming floor.
(8) The approximate length of time the gaming floor or systems will be disrupted.
(9) Plans for system backup prior to any proposed installation.
CHAPTER 463a. POSSESSION OF SLOT MACHINES AND FULLY AUTOMATED ELECTRONIC GAMING TABLES § 463a.1. Possession of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables generally.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section and 18 Pa.C.S. § 5513 (relating to gambling devices, gambling, etc.), a person may not possess any slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table within this Commonwealth that may be used for gambling activity.
(b) The following persons and any employee or agent acting on their behalf may possess slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables in this Commonwealth for the purposes described herein provided that slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables located outside of a licensed facility may not be used for gambling activity:
(1) A slot machine licensee, for the purpose of maintaining for use, training or operating slot machines in a licensed facility.
(2) The holder of a manufacturer license for the purpose of manufacturing, exhibiting, demonstrating, training or preparing for transfer to a manufacturer designee licensee, supplier licensee or slot machine licensee.
(3) The holder of a manufacturer designee license or supplier license for the purpose of distributing, repairing, servicing, exhibiting or demonstrating slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables and any training with regard thereto.
(4) An educational institution for the purpose of teaching slot machine design, operation, repair or servicing.
(5) A manufacturer, manufacturer designee or supplier of slot machines not licensed within this Commonwealth for the limited purpose of temporary exhibition or demonstration.
(6) A common carrier, for the purpose of transporting slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables in accordance with § 463a.2 (relating to transportation of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables into, within and out of this Commonwealth).
(7) An employee or agent of the Board, the Department, the Pennsylvania State Police or any law enforcement agency of this Commonwealth for the purpose of fulfilling official duties or responsibilities.
(8) Other persons upon a finding that the possession of slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables by those persons in this Commonwealth is not contrary to the goals and objectives of the act.
(c) Persons seeking to possess slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables under subsection (b)(4), (5) and (8) shall submit a petition to the Board as required under § 493a.4 (relating to petitions generally). The petition to the Board must contain:
(1) The purpose for having the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables.
(2) The proposed location of the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables.
(3) The time period for which the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables will be kept.
(4) How the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables will be secured.
(d) Requests approved by the Board may be subject to specific terms and conditions imposed by the Board.
(e) A person authorized to possess slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables under subsection (d) that desires to store the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables at a location other than the location specified in subsection (c)(2) shall obtain approval from the Board's Executive Director prior to storing the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables at the other location.
§ 463a.2. Transportation of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables into, within and out of this Commonwealth.
(a) In furtherance of section 1511 of the act (relating to declaration of exemption from Federal laws prohibiting slot machines), prior to the transport or movement of a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table into, within or out of this Commonwealth, from one person authorized to possess slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables under § 463a.1 (relating to possession of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables generally) to another person, the persons causing the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table to be transported or moved shall notify the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance in writing or in an electronic format approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations. The notice shall be submitted no later than the day the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is transported and include the following information:
(1) The name and address of the person shipping or moving the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table.
(2) The name and address of the person who owns the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table, if different from the person shipping or moving the machine.
(3) The name and address of a new owner if ownership is being changed in conjunction with the shipment or movement.
(4) The method of shipment or movement and the name and address of the common carrier or carriers, if applicable.
(5) The name and address of the person to whom the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is being sent and the destination of the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table, if different from that address.
(6) The quantity of slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables being shipped or moved and the manufacturer's serial number of each machine.
(7) The expected date and time of delivery to, or removal from, any authorized location within this Commonwealth.
(8) The port of entry, or exit, if any, of the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table if the origin or destination of the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is outside the continental United States.
(9) The reason for transporting or moving the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table.
(b) In addition to the requirements in subsection (a), if a slot machine licensee is shipping slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables to or from the slot machine licensee's approved, off-premises storage location, the slot machine licensee shall comply with the requirements in subsection (a) and record the movement in the licensee's movement log as required under § 463a.5(e) (relating to slot machine and fully automated electronic gaming table master lists). If a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is being transported to the licensed facility from the licensee's approved, off-premises storage location, the licensee shall specify in the notice required under subsection (a) whether the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table will be placed directly onto the gaming floor or stored off the gaming floor in a restricted area within the licensed facility.
§ 463a.3. Slot machine and fully automated electronic gaming table location on the gaming floor.
(a) A gaming floor must consist of one or more areas within a licensed facility approved by the Board or Executive Director under § 467a.1 (relating to gaming floor plan) for the placement and operation of slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables.
(b) A slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table on a gaming floor shall be placed at a location, which location may contain no more than one slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table, identified by number on a gaming floor plan approved by the Board or Executive Director under section 1322 of the act (relating to slot machine accounting controls and audits) and § 467a.1 and shall also be identified by this slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table location number and an asset number on the Gaming Floor Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List.
§ 463a.4. Notice and connection to the central control computer system.
(a) Prior to utilization for gambling activity, a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table on a gaming floor shall be connected or linked to a central control computer system having the capabilities and in compliance with the terms of section 1323 of the act (relating to central control computer system).
(b) To ensure activation or disabling, as appropriate, in the central control computer system and the retrieval of real time meter information from the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table in conjunction with the movement of a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table, the slot machine licensee shall provide the Department with written notice of the slot or fully automated electronic gaming table movement, prior to any of the following:
(1) Placement of a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table on the gaming floor.
(2) Movement of a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table between slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table locations on the gaming floor.
(3) Removal of a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table from the gaming floor.
§ 463a.5. Slot machine and fully automated electronic gaming table master lists.
(a) Prior to the commencement of operations at a licensed facility, a slot machine licensee shall file the following with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance, in an electronic format approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations:
(1) Gaming Floor Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List.
(2) Restricted Area/Off Premises Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List.
(b) A Gaming Floor Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List must list all slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables located on the gaming floor in consecutive order by the slot machine location number under § 463a.3 (relating to slot machine and fully automated electronic gaming table location on the gaming floor) and contain the following:
(1) The date the list was prepared.
(2) A description of each slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table which includes:
(i) The zone/location number.
(ii) The asset number.
(iii) The manufacturer's serial number.
(iv) The base denomination, or if configured for multiple denominations, a list of the denominations.
(v) The game software/program ID.
(vi) The operating system/base ROM.
(vii) The manufacturer.
(viii) The slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table model.
(ix) The model type (reel or video).
(x) The game theme/description.
(xi) The minimum payout percentage.
(xii) The machine displayed payout percentage.
(xiii) The paytable ID.
(xiv) Whether the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is in a smoking area.
(xv) If the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is a progressive, the type of progressive, the progressive controller type and the progressive software.
(xvi) The fund transfer/voucher system software.
(c) If a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is configured to allow a patron to select from multiple game themes, each game theme, minimum and machine displayed payout percentages and paytable ID must be listed in the Gaming Floor Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List. Instead of listing each game theme, minimum and machine displayed payout percentage and paytable ID for a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table configured to offer multiple game themes with the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table, a slot machine licensee may use a unique generic code for the game theme and attach an appendix which lists the game themes, minimum and machine displayed payout percentages and paytable IDs that correspond to each unique generic game theme code.
(d) A Restricted Area/Off Premises Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List must include all slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables located off the gaming floor in a restricted area within the licensed facility approved under § 465a.8(b) (relating to licensed facility), or in storage locations in this Commonwealth off the premises of the licensed facility approved under § 463a.7 (relating to off premises storage of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables) grouped by the location where the slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables are located. A Restricted Area/Off Premises Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List must include the following information:
(1) The date the list was prepared.
(2) A description of each slot machine and fully automated electronic gaming table which includes:
(i) The location of the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table.
(ii) The asset number.
(iii) The manufacturer's serial number.
(iv) The game software/program ID.
(v) The operating system/base ROM.
(vi) The game theme/description.
(vii) The manufacturer.
(viii) The slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table model.
(ix) The model type (reel or video).
(e) Once a slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table has been placed in an authorized location on the gaming floor, stored in a restricted area off the gaming floor but within the licensed facility approved under § 465a.8 or in a location in this Commonwealth off the premises of the licensed facility approved under § 463a.7, all subsequent movements of that slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table shall be recorded by a slot department member in a slot machine movement log which includes the following:
(1) The asset number and model and manufacturer's serial number of the moved slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table.
(2) The date and time of movement.
(3) The location from which the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table was moved.
(4) The location to which the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table was moved.
(5) The date and time of any required notice to the Department in connection with activation or disabling of the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table in the central control computer system.
(6) The signature of the slot shift manager and the lead technician verifying the movement of the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table in compliance with this section.
(f) Documentation summarizing slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table movements, as described in subsection (e), shall be submitted to the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance, in an electronic format approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations, on a daily basis.
(g) On the first Tuesday of each month a slot machine licensee shall file an updated Gaming Floor Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List and an updated Restricted Area/Off Premises Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List containing the information required under subsections (b)—(d). The Gaming Floor Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List and the Restricted Area/Off Premises Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List shall be filed in an electronic format with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations.
(h) Persons authorized by the Board to possess slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables under § 463a.1(c) (relating to possession of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables generally) shall file with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations, in an electronic format approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations, a complete list of slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming table possessed by the person. The list shall:
(1) Be denoted as a Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List.
(2) Be filed within 3 business days of the initial receipt of slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables.
(3) Contain the following information:
(i) The date on which the list was prepared.
(ii) A description of each slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table including:
(A) The manufacturer.
(B) The manufacturer's serial number.
(C) The slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table model.
(D) The model type (reel or video).
(E) Whether or not the slot machine or fully automated electronic gaming table is a progressive, and if it is, the type of progressive.
(i) On the first Tuesday of each month following the initial filing of a Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List, those persons enumerated in subsection (h) shall file with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations, in an electronic format approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations, an updated Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List containing the information required in subsection (h).
§ 463a.6. (Reserved).
§ 463a.7. Off premises storage of slot machines and fully automated electronic gaming tables.
(a) A slot machine licensee may not store slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables off the premises of a licensed facility without prior approval from the Board's Executive Director.
(b) A slot machine licensee seeking to store slot machines off the premises of a licensed facility shall submit a written request to the Bureau of Gaming Operations for off premise storage. The written request must include:
(1) The location and a physical description of the proposed storage facility.
(2) A description of the type of surveillance system that has been or will be installed at the proposed storage facility.
(3) The plan to provide 24 hour, 7 day a week security at the proposed storage facility.
(4) The anticipated number of slot machines or fully automated electronic gaming tables that may be stored at the proposed storage facility.
(c) Before the Board's Executive Director will act on a request for off premise storage of slot machines, the Director of Casino Compliance will inspect the proposed storage facility.
(d) The Board's Executive Director will approve or disapprove requests within 60 days. Requests approved by the Board's Executive Director may be subject to specific terms and conditions imposed by the Board's Executive Director.
CHAPTER 464a. SLOT MACHINE TOURNAMENTS Sec.
464a.1. Definitions. 464a.2. Conduct of a slot machine tournament. § 464a.1. Definitions.
The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Points—Noncash equivalent electronic instrument utilized for slot machine tournament play only, the total of which determines the winners of a slot machine tournament.
Slot machine tournament—A contest whereby individuals engage in competitive slot machine play against other individuals utilizing points.
§ 464a.2. Conduct of a slot machine tournament.
(a) Slot machine tournaments may not be played with cash, value chips, plaques, gaming vouchers or other cash equivalents.
(b) A slot machine licensee may charge an entry fee to participate in a slot machine tournament. A slot machine licensee that charges an entry fee shall submit electronically to the Department of Revenue a Slot Tournament Revenue Report by 10 a.m. on the day following the conclusion of the tournament.
(c) A slot machine licensee that wishes to conduct a slot machine tournament shall submit for Executive Director approval notice of intent to conduct a slot machine tournament at least 10 days prior to the start of the tournament. The notice must be submitted electronically to the Bureau of Gaming Operations using the Internal Controls & Table Games Submission Form, which is posted on the Board's web site, and include the following:
(1) A general description of how the slot machine tournament will be conducted and a copy of the rules governing play.
(2) The dates and times that the tournament will be conducted.
(3) Participation eligibility requirements including:
(i) Who is eligible to participate.
(ii) The minimum and maximum number of participants.
(iii) Entry fees charged.
(4) The criteria used to determine the winners.
(5) The monetary amount or description of the prizes to be awarded.
(6) The details of when and how the prizes will be awarded.
(7) The asset and gaming floor plan location numbers of the slot machines that will be used to conduct the slot machine tournament.
(8) How the slot machine tournament area will be segregated from patrons who are not participating in the slot machine tournament.
(d) In addition to filing a notice required under subsection (c), a slot machine licensee shall submit a copy of the notice to the casino compliance representatives at the licensed facility, the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Department of Revenue.
(e) Advertising to promote a slot machine tournament must, at a minimum:
(1) Comply with the advertising requirements in Chapter 421b (relating to advertising guidelines—statement of policy) and § 421a.6 (relating to advertising).
(2) Contain information on who is eligible to participate.
(3) Include a copy of the slot machine tournament rules or state how a copy of the rules may be obtained.
(f) A slot machine used for a slot machine tournament must:
(1) Use tournament software authorized by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations in accordance with § 461a.4 (relating to submission for testing and approval).
(2) Maintain connectivity with the Central Control Computer System (CCS).
(3) Have the functionality of the bill validator, ticket printer and electronic funds transfer meters disabled during the slot machine tournament so that the slot machine does not accept cash or credits or make payouts during tournament play.
(g) A slot machine used in a slot machine tournament may not be made available for play to individuals entered in the tournament until the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations has completed an initial test of the tournament software and has authorized the slot machine for tournament play.
(h) Before and after slot machine tournament, the slot machine licensee shall:
(1) Receive approval from the onsite CCR to place the slot machine in and take it out of tournament mode.
(2) Ensure that the CCS has recorded all meter settings on all slot machines used in the tournament.
(i) A slot machine licensee shall maintain records related to the conduct of a slot machine tournament in accordance with § 465a.6(c) (relating to retention, storage and destruction of books, records and documents). These records shall be made available to Board staff, the Department and the Pennsylvania State Police upon request and must include:
(1) A copy of the notice required under subsection (d).
(2) The names and addresses of all prize winners and the prize each winner was awarded.
CHAPTER 465a. ACCOUNTING AND INTERNAL CONTROLS § 465a.2. Internal control systems and audit protocols.
* * * * * (f) If a slot machine licensee intends to make a change or amendment to its system of internal controls, it shall submit the change or amendment electronically to the Bureau of Gaming Operations using the Internal Controls & Table Games Submission Form posted on the Board's web site. A request for a change or amendment must include electronic copies of the attestations required under subsection (b)(1) and (2). The slot machine licensee may implement the change or amendment on the 30th calendar day following the filing of a complete submission unless the slot machine licensee receives written notice tolling the change or amendment in accordance with subsection (g) or written notice from the Board's Executive Director rejecting the change or amendment.
* * * * * § 465a.19. Acceptance of tips or gratuities from patrons.
* * * * * (d) A patron may identify a wager as a tip wager. A tip wager placed at the table shall be played separately from the player's other wagers. A winning tip wager shall be collected and deposited in the tip box after each round of play or after a roll of the dice which decides the outcome of the wager. A winning tip wager or part of a winning tip wager may not be wagered again. Upon receipt from a patron of a tip or gratuity, a dealer shall extend his arm in an overt motion, and deposit the tip or gratuity in the locked box reserved for tips and gratuities.
* * * * * § 465a.33. Access to areas containing central control computer equipment.
A slot machine licensee shall develop and submit to the Board and the Department, as part of the submission required under § 465a.2 (relating to internal control systems and audit protocols), procedures for safeguarding and limiting access to the central control computer (CCC) equipment housed within the licensed facility. At a minimum, these procedures must include the following requirements:
(1) The area containing CCC equipment must:
(i) Be secured with a manual key lock system, the keys to which must be different from any other keys used in the licensed facility.
(ii) Have a door that when opened audibly signals the surveillance monitoring room.
(iii) Have adequate surveillance camera coverage to record all activity in the area.
(2) Access to the area containing the CCC system equipment may not be permitted unless prior arrangements have been made with the Department and the operator of the CCC system.
(3) All keys which access the area containing CCC equipment shall be maintained by the slot machine licensee's security department. The keys may only be signed out by a security supervisor or above to employees of the Department or the operator of the CCC system who are on the authorized access list. The authorized access list shall be obtained from the Department and made available to the casino compliance representatives and the director of security at the licensed facility. A verbal notification shall be made to the surveillance monitoring room, the operator of the CCC system and the casino compliance representatives at the licensed facility prior to signing out the keys.
(4) The slot machine licensee shall maintain an access log for the area containing CCC equipment. The log shall be maintained in a book with bound numbered pages that cannot be readily removed and placed in close proximity to the CCC equipment. Casino compliance representatives at the licensed facility may review the log upon request to the Department and the operator of the CCC system. The log shall be stored and retained in accordance with § 465a.6 (relating to retention, storage and destruction of books, records and documents). The following information shall be recorded in a log:
(i) The date and time of each entry.
(ii) The entering individual's name, Board-issued credential number and department or affiliation.
(iii) The reason for entering the area containing CCC equipment.
(iv) The name of the individual authorizing entry into the area containing CCC equipment.
(v) The date and time of exiting the area containing the CCC equipment.
(5) Individuals who are not authorized to have access to the area containing CCC equipment may only be granted access for emergency situations requiring environmental adjustments, such as electrical, plumbing or HVAC malfunctions, with a security escort. When emergency access is granted, the slot machine licensee shall provide notice immediately to the Department, the operator of the CCC system and the casino compliance representatives at the licensed facility prior to permitting entry to the area containing CCC equipment.
Subpart K. TABLE GAMES
CHAPTER 607a. POSSESSION OF TABLE GAMES AND TABLE GAME DEVICES Sec.
607a.1. Transportation of table games and table game devices into, within and out of this Commonwealth. 607a.2. Table game device master list. 607a.3. Off premises storage of table games and table game devices. § 607a.1. Transportation of table games and table game devices into, within and out of this Commonwealth.
(a) Prior to the transport or movement of table games and table game devices into, within or out of this Commonwealth, the persons causing the table games and table game devices to be transported or moved shall notify the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance in writing or in an electronic format approved by Board staff. The notice shall be submitted no later than the day the table games or table game devices are transported and must include the following:
(1) The name and address of the person shipping or moving the table games or table game devices.
(2) The name and address of the person who owns the table games or table game devices if different from the person shipping or moving table games or table game devices.
(3) The name and address of the new owner if ownership is being changed in conjunction with the shipment or movement.
(4) The method of shipment or movement and the name and address of the common carrier, if applicable.
(5) The name and address of the person to whom the table games or table game devices are being sent and the destination of the table games or table game devices, if different from that address.
(6) The quantity of table games or table game devices being shipped or moved and the manufacturer's serial number, if applicable, for each table game or table game device.
(7) The expected date and time of delivery to, or removal from, an authorized location within this Commonwealth.
(8) The port of entry or exit, if any, of the table games or table game devices if the origin or destination of the table games or table game devices is outside of the continental United States.
(9) The reason for transporting or moving the table games or table game devices.
(b) In addition to the requirements in subsection (a), if a certificate holder is shipping table games or table game devices to or from the certificate holder's off-premises storage location, the certificate holder shall comply with the requirements in subsection (a). If a table game or table game device is being transported to the licensed facility from the certificate holder's office-premises storage location, the certificate holder shall specify in the notice required under subsection (a) whether the table game or table game device will be placed directly onto the gaming floor or stored off the gaming floor in a restricted area within the licensed facility.
§ 607a.2. Table game device master list.
(a) Prior to commencement of table game operations at a licensed facility, a table games certificate holder shall file with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations and the Bureau of Casino Compliance, in an electronic format approved by the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations, a Gaming Floor Table Game Device Master List and a Restricted Area/Off Premises Table Game Device Master List for the following table game devices:
(1) Electronic gaming tables as described in § 605a.4 (relating to electronic gaming tables).
(2) Progressive table game systems as described in § 605a.7 (relating to progressive table game systems).
(3) Automated card shuffling devices as described in § 603a.17 (relating to dealing shoes; automated card shuffling devices).
(4) Electronic dealing shoes as described in § 603a.17.
(5) Electronic wagering systems as described in § 605a.2 (relating to electronic wagering systems)
(6) Any other mechanical, electrical or computerized contrivance, terminal or machine required to be submitted to the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operators for testing and approval in accordance with Chapter 461a (relating to slot machine and table game device testing and control).
(b) The Gaming Floor Table Game Device Master List and the Restricted Area/Off Premises Table Game Device Master List must contain the following information:
(1) The date the list was prepared.
(2) A description of each table game device listed in subsection (a) which includes:
(i) The pit number or location on the gaming floor, restricted area of the licensed facility or other approved storage location.
(ii) The asset number or table game type, or both, that the device is connected to.
(iii) The manufacturer.
(iv) The manufacturer's serial number.
(v) The software/program identification.
(vi) If the device is a progressive:
(A) The name of the progressive controller type.
(B) The name and version of the progressive software.
(3) Identify if the fully automated, electronic or live gaming table on the gaming floor utilizes a progressive table game system in accordance with § 605a.7 to offer a progressive jackpot and, if so, identify all other tables that are linked to the same progressive jackpot.
(c) In conjunction with the Gaming Floor and Restricted Area/Off Premises Slot Machine and Fully Automated Electronic Gaming Table Master List filed in accordance with § 463a.5(g) (relating to slot machine and fully automated electronic gaming table master lists), on the first Tuesday of each month, a certificate holder shall file with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations an updated Gaming Floor Table Game Device Master List and Restricted Area/Off Premises Table Game Device Master List containing the information required under subsection (b). The Gaming Floor Table Game Device Master List and the Restricted Area/Off Premises Table Game Device Master List shall be filed in an electronic format with the Bureau of Gaming Laboratory Operations.
§ 607a.3. Off premises storage of table games and table game devices.
(a) A certificate holder may not store table games or table game devices off the premises of a licensed facility without prior approval from the Board's Executive Director.
(b) A slot machine licensee seeking to store table games and table game devices off the premises of a licensed facility shall submit a written request to the Bureau of Gaming Operations for off premise storage. The written request must include:
(1) The location and a physical description of the proposed storage facility.
(2) A description of the type of surveillance system that has been or will be installed at the proposed storage facility.
(3) The plan to provide 24-hour, 7-day a week security at the proposed storage facility.
(4) The anticipated number of table games or table game devices that may be stored at the proposed storage facility.
(c) Before the Board's Executive Director will act on a request for off premise storage of table games or table game devices, the Director of Casino Compliance will inspect the proposed storage facility.
(d) The Board's Executive Director will approve or disapprove requests within 60 days. Approved requests may be subject to specific terms and conditions imposed by the Board's Executive Director.
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