New Bill Proposes To Treat New Jersey Skill Cranes As Games of Chance

Nicholas Scutari

Local newspapers reported that the bill is expected to impose standards for the skill cranes in order to receive a "certification of permissibility." These standards would include programming the game to ensure "reasonable odds of obtaining a prize," as well as posting odds of winning directly on the game.

The yet-to-be-set standards, according to a rough draft of the bill, would be established by review of similar regulations in other states, and with input from experts in the amusement industry. It is known that both software and mechanical components will come under scrutiny. At present, it is uncertain whether the new regulations would extend beyond "claw machines" to include redemption and prize merchandisers.

Sources closely following the bill say the legislation was prompted by a spate of recent reports of "rigged" skill cranes in the media and online. The proposal for new regulations comes less than a year after Gov. Chris Christie lifted the 56-year ban on alcohol sold at establishments housing amusement games, clearing the way for Dave and Buster's, a nationwide operator of big box restaurants and gamerooms, to enter the Garden State. | SEE STORY