By Stephanie Brien
Journal Times | Posted: Monday, September 22, 2008 12:00 am
RACINE - What should the City of Racine do about illegal video poker machines?
That is a question the Public Safety and Licensing Committee is still mulling over.
Video poker machines are illegal everywhere in the state except casinos. But under state law it is only a misdemeanor to have five or less video poker machines in establishments where alcohol is both sold and consumed. One the other hand, it is a criminal offense to have video poker machines at other establishments such as gas stations and convenience stores.
The other difference is that only the Wisconsin Department of Revenue can enforce video poker machines at establishments where alcohol is both sold and consumed while local law enforcement agencies are allowed to enforce the gaming law at other establishments.
The licensing committee requested Monday night that the city attorney review state laws and local ordinances dealing with video poker machines. The committee also asked the city attorney to work with the police chief to determine the best enforcement options.
Alderman Jim Spangenberg, who initially presented the issue to the committee, wrote a letter to state Sen. John Lehman, D-Racine, about clarifying the law. At Monday's meeting he asked the other aldermen to contact their state representatives as well.
"I'm not trying to get rid of video poker," Spangenberg said. "I just want clarity. That is all I'm asking."
Two weeks ago the licensing committee discussed what to do about the poker machines and members offered various suggestions, but they deferred any decision. The numerous suggestions included having the sheriff's department enforce gas stations and convenience stores, taxing the profits from the machines or writing a letter to the state asking for better enforcement. Monday night they again deferred any final decisions until their next meeting Oct. 13.