Editorial: Slot rule passes its initial test

Monday, May 1, 2000 | 10:02 a.m.

The Nevada Gaming Commission struck a reasonable balance in its first use of a new regulation that is aimed at restricting slot machines that could entice children. On Thursday the commission approved International Game Technology's application to distribute a slot machine based on the "Addams Family" cartoon characters -- but did so only after placing curbs on where the game may be placed.

The commission correctly determined that the slots should only be used by those who have unrestricted licenses, which typically are casinos that have 15 or more slots. Not only will this decision effectively prohibit the "Addams Family" slots from being located in bars and taverns, but it also means that this specific slot machine can't be placed in grocery stores, convenience stores drug stores, which are frequented by children. In addition, the commission ruled that the "Addams Family" slots placed in casinos will have to be in areas where children wouldn't have access. So these slots couldn't be situated near areas with high foot traffic, such as near movie theaters or restaurants located in casinos.

The subject of cartoon-themed slots, especially those that children may identify with, is a serious issue and one that the state has a legitimate interest in regulating. The last thing the gaming industry needs is the condemnation the tobacco industry received in previous years for trying to lure children through its "Joe Camel" marketing campaign.

While the commission sent a clear message last week that it won't tolerate placing slots in locations that could entice children, it wouldn't be surprising that in the future there might be slot makers who will argue that such restrictions harm their businesses. Casinos also may assert that these curbs -- based on how their casino floors are designed to accommodate the foot traffic of minors -- could make it impossible for them to use cartoon-themed slots at all. These casinos, then, could argue that such restrictions put them at a competitive disadvantage since they're effectively prevented from using these cartoon-themed slots.

State gaming regulators, though, should remain steadfast and make sure that over time their application of this regulation remains strictly enforced. There is no reason why the state of Nevada should in any way allow slot machines that could encourage minors to gamble.