Accomplishments
PAMMA is the unified voice for the people behind Pennsylvania's amusement industry. From skill games and jukeboxes to ATMs, pool tables, darts, and arcade games, we represent the operators and business that power coin-operated entertainment across the state.
With PAMMA, we keep it local to keep you informed and protect your business.
PAMMA's Impact
Secured Legalization of Cash-Prize Tournaments (2012)
PAMMA worked with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) to amend regulations that previously prohibited cash prizes for tournaments in licensed establishments. The updated rules now permit cash awards for skill-based competitions like darts, pool, and trivia, provided certain prize limits are adhered to. This change allows operators to legally host such events, enhancing customer engagement and supporting local businesses.
Defeated Industry Sales Tax Proposals (2009–2010)
PAMMA successfully blocked legislative efforts to extend a 6% sales tax to gross receipts from all coin-operated amusement devices. One bill narrowly passed the House by a single vote before being defeated in the Senate. When a second attempt was made, PAMMA helped secure a decisive 40-vote margin to defeat it in the House, protecting the industry from increased taxation.
Defeated Sole-Source Video Poker Legislation (2009)
Governor Ed Rendell proposed legalizing video poker machines in bars and clubs to support education funding. PAMMA supported the concept, until the proposal shifted to a sole-source vendor model that would have granted exclusive control to a single provider. Recognizing the threat this posed to independent operators, PAMMA launched a advocacy campaign and successfully defeated the legislation, preserving fair competition and protecting the livelihoods of small businesses across PA.
Secured Smoking Exemptions for Licensed Locations (2008)
PAMMA played a key role in shaping Pennsylvania's Clean Indoor Air Act to ensure that many member locations, particularly bars and clubs, could continue to permit indoor smoking. The association helped draft the exemption language and successfully advocated for its inclusion in the legislation. To support compliance, PAMMA and member distributors held regional seminars to assist members and customers with the required state application process.
Implemented Parental Advisory Rating System (1994)
PAMMA adopted the Parental Advisory Rating System developed by AAMA and AMOA to promote responsible business practices. This color-coded system was designed to inform families about the content of coin-operated video games, helping parents make informed decisions about the suitability of games for their children. By implementing this system, PAMMA reinforced its commitment to providing safe and family-friendly entertainment options in member locations.