Published: February 01, 2006 02:09 pm            

Jasper city council approves prohibition of slot machines

The members of the Jasper City Council have passed an ordinance prohibiting the commercial operation of slot machines within the city limits, which became effective on Jan. 9.

Slot machines that involve an element of chance are already illegal in Florida. But the members of the city council found no substantial difference regarding the adverse effects of slot machines governed by chance and those requiring some element of skill. The adverse effects include gambling addictions, crime and financial loss.

The ordinance prohibits slot machines that operate by chance as well as those which require the application of skill. The following slot machines are included in the ban: Fruit Paradise, New Cherry, Fruit

Bonus, Triple Jack, Magical Odds, Mystery J&B, Klondike and Reel of Fortune.

Games such as pinball, mechanical grab machines, shooting games and other similar games are not slot machines. Personal, recreational, non-commercial ownership and use of slot machines that are not prohibited by the state, is permissible.

Violation of the ordinance is a second degree misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, a sentence of 60 days in the county jail or both. Violators will also be responsible for all court costs.

        

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