A San Antonio councilwoman is proposing a ban on contentious eight-liner gaming machines in response to Texas courts’ rulings that these machines can be manipulated to breach the state’s gambling laws.
According to Texas law, commercial gambling machines are prohibited from awarding cash prizes. Eight-liners operate under the “Fuzzy Animal Exception,” allowing amusement devices to award non-cash prizes worth less than $5 or up to 10 times the cost to play.
Initially intended for arcade games offering prizes like stuffed animals, toys, and novelties, Councilwoman Teri Castillo believes eight-liners have strayed far from the law’s original purpose and is advocating for their prohibition within San Antonio.
In a Council Consideration Request dated Sept. 4, Castillo proposes the City Council ban eight-liner games within the city’s boundaries.
Combating Illegal Gambling
Castillo highlights the excessive measures taken by eight-liner operators to exploit the “Fuzzy Animal Exception,” effectively transforming the machines into slot machines.
Rogue operators have reprogrammed the machines for higher payouts and used indirect cash rewards such as prepaid debit cards and gift cards, which can be redeemed at affiliated businesses. The Texas Supreme Court ruled against these cash-payments in 2003.
The councilwoman is calling for action.
The ongoing operation of eight-liners in San Antonio undermines both state law objectives and the city’s commitment to public safety and community welfare. Banning eight-liner operations presents an opportunity to safeguard residents and support lawful businesses,” Castillo stated.
Castillo’s proposal entails banning the gaming machines, reinforcing enforcement and inspection for compliance, and prioritizing community education on illegal gambling.
Supporting Castillo’s initiative are councilmembers Edward Mungia (D4), Ric Galvan (D6), Marina Alderete (D7), and Marc Whyte (D10).
San Antonio City Council comprises 10 members, with Castillo’s proposal first undergoing review by the Governance Committee, chaired by Edward Mungia. The Governance Committee assesses new policy initiatives before they are passed on to the full City Council.
San Antonio ranks as the seventh most populous city in the United States, housing over 1.5 million residents.
Texas Gambling Legislation
Texas stands out as one of the few states lacking commercial or tribal casinos offering traditional slot machines and house-banked live dealer table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette.
Las Vegas Sands continues to advocate in Austin for the establishment of casino resorts in the state. While the Texas Legislature convenes in odd-numbered years, the push for gambling legislation is expected to resume next year.