A House bill seeking to crack down on illegal gambling operations in the state has cleared its second committee, but concerns remain about unintended consequences and a potential lack of clarity.
The bill (HB 189) cleared the House Appropriations Committee after debate established some potential drawbacks, including ensnaring unknowing employees into legal trouble.
Broadly, the bill increases penalties for operating an illegal gambling house or establishment with illegal slot machines, establishes fines for violations and prohibits advertising unauthorized betting establishments.
The bill sponsor, Rep. Michelle Salzman, said the bill addresses reports of adult arcades and internet cafes that have “sneakily infiltrated our communities” and seeks to cut off “financial lifelines for drug trades and human trafficking.”
