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Can I offer contests that involve skill-based games in Washington? What are the requirements?

Based on the documents provided, it is possible to offer skill-based contests in Washington, but there are specific requirements that must be met.

Requirements for Skill-Based Contests

According to [2.5]" >WAAC 230-13-100, amusement game operators must conduct games in which the outcome depends to a material degree on the skill of the player. A “material degree of skill” is present when both of these requirements are met:

  1. The player’s physical or mental abilities play an important and integral role in determining the outcome of the game.
  2. The success rate of the average player would improve with repeated play or practice.

Approval Process for Amusement Games

Operators must follow the approval process outlined in [2.1]" >WAAC 230-13-010 for introducing new amusement games. The process includes submitting a description of the game, the rules of play, and the group number of the game with an explanation of why that group was chosen at least sixty days before introducing the game. The game cannot be introduced during this sixty day period unless approved sooner by the Washington State Gambling Commission.

Recordkeeping Requirements

Unlicensed charitable or nonprofit organizations must keep records according to [2.2]" >WAAC 230-13-175 which will allow the Washington State Gambling Commission to determine the amount of gross gambling receipts received from amusement games and identify individuals responsible for receiving and controlling them.

Conclusion

In summary, it is possible to offer skill-based contests in Washington, but operators must ensure that the games meet the requirements outlined in [2.5]" >WAAC 230-13-100. Additionally, operators must follow the approval process outlined in [2.1]" >WAAC 230-13-010 for introducing new amusement games and keep records according to [2.2]" >WAAC 230-13-175.

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Washington