HB 18-1234

HB 18-1234, a Colorado bill that has been signed into law, revises definitions related to internet sweepstakes cafes. It changes how terms like "gambling" and "prize" are defined in criminal statutes, allowing for small prizes of nominal value and including devices that require both chance and skill. The bill also clarifies that it's illegal if someone gets paid indirectly or through non-monetary means when people use these devices, regardless of whether the payment happens before or after using the device. This affects businesses operating internet sweepstakes cafes and their customers in Colorado. Since the bill has been signed, it is now law and enforceable.

Official Summary

Section 1 of the bill amends the definitions of key terms such as "gambling", "prize", and "simulated gambling device" as used in the criminal statutes governing simulated gambling devices. "Prize" is subject to a de minimis exemption for a ticket or coupon redeemable for specified goods of nominal value, and "simulated gambling device" is defined to include devices that combine the elements of chance and skill, in accordance with the state constitution. Section 2 specifies that unlawful offering of a simulated gambling device occurs if a person receives payment indirectly or in a nonmonetary form for use of a simulated gambling device, and that the time of payment (i.e., before or after use of the device) is irrelevant.(Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.) , Read More

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