Illegal Status of Electronic Gaming Machines Upheld in Wyoming, Affirms State Attorney
In a recent development, Wyoming Attorney General Peter Michael has declared that many electronic skill games machines across the state are illegal games of chance. This decision comes after a formal request from Natrona County District Attorney Michael Blonigen, specifically regarding machines manufactured by Banilla Games Inc. of North Carolina.
The state's laws clearly state that engaging in legal gambling is a crime. These machines, which can be found in bars, restaurants, and other establishments, have been a subject of confusion for local law enforcement.
Michael has evaluated the electronic games manufactured by Banilla Games and determined they are illegal gambling devices under Wyoming law. The games, such as Bathtime Bucks, Fruity Sevens, Spooky's Loot, and Mega Money Reel, which employ elements of skill like pattern recognition sequences, have been identified as falling under this category.
It's important to note that this ruling does not impact "historic horse racing" terminals at parimutuel off-track betting locations or electronic bingo, both of which are explicitly permitted under Wyoming law.
The National County Sheriff's Office will reach out to local businesses to inform them that these machines need to be removed to comply with state law. The crackdown on skill gaming is expected to follow, but it is unlikely to be heavy-handed.
This decision adds to the complex legal landscape for gaming in Wyoming, a state that has only recently started to legalise various forms of gaming. Almost all forms of gaming were illegal in Wyoming until the establishment of the lottery in 2013 and the introduction of tribal casinos a few years before that.
Despite the efforts to regulate and control various forms of gaming and digital activities, such as the recent attempts to introduce online gambling legislation, these efforts have faced significant challenges and opposition. There is currently no regulator to define what illegal gambling actually is.
The last updated date on this issue is June 23, 2025, 08:06h. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it would be necessary to consult the latest state legislation or regulatory updates directly related to these types of games.
The decision by Wyoming Attorney General Peter Michael has expanded the complex legal landscape for gaming, as it includes skill-based games like Bathtime Bucks, Fruity Sevens, Spooky's Loot, and Mega Money Reel, which are considered illegal gambling devices under state law. Meanwhile, the entertainment industry, including sports, education, and self-development, remains unaffected, distinguishing itself from casino-and-gambling activities.
