Dave and Buster's in-app betting function draws regulatory criticism in several states.
Dave and Buster's introduced peer-to-peer gambling within their D&B Rewards mobile app this month. However, governors and regulators in gambling-centric states quickly voiced their concerns.
One of the first reactions came from Ohio, as the state's gaming commission expressed their worries about people betting on arcade games. Illinois' lawmakers joining the chorus, advancing a bill to block the restaurant-arcade company from offering in-app betting.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), famed for its strict gaming regulations, also moved to exclude the gambling feature from Dave & Buster's app.
Dave & Buster's justify the betting feature as a way for adults 18+ to make friendly bets among peers. The company claimed it was a part of their mission to continuously improve their customer experience using innovative technology.
Nevada Bans
The NVGCB recommended to the Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) that it disallow arcades from facilitating any type of social gambling, forcing Dave & Buster's to disable the feature in Nevada.
Nevada's NGCB is known for their unyielding stance against any form of unlicensed gaming. Additionally, they permanently oppose actions that might promote underage gambling. Kirk Hendrick, NGCB chair, said, "The Nevada Gaming Control Board consistently opposes activities that could lead to underage gambling."
Dave & Buster’s has two locations in Southern Nevada and is set to open a third in Reno.
Illinois' House of Representatives is considering a bill banning arcades from facilitating unregulated gambling on their property. The House Gaming Committee unanimously passed House Bill 394, dubbed the Family Amusement Wagering Prohibition Act, on Thursday.
Rep. Daniel Didech, a Democrat from Buffalo Grove, Illinois, who sponsored the legislation, stated, "Illinois closely regulates our growing gaming industry to guarantee fair play for gamers and safety for families."
With the House Gaming Committee's approval, the bill will advance to the House floor for a further decision.
Besides Ohio and Illinois, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is also evaluating Dave & Buster's app gambling strategy.
Locations and Facts
As of April, Dave & Buster's reported owning 162 locations in the United States. California and Texas hold the largest number of locations, with neither allowing commercial casinos or approved sports betting. California has 21 Dave & Buster's while Texas has 15. New York is home to 13 D&B branches, the only other state with more than 10.
The D&B Rewards app provides users with reward points they can use for free food, drinks, and gameplay credits. It also allows users to reserve tables and partake in arcade challenges against other players.
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Source: www.casino.org
