Skill Games Issue To Be Challenged In Court

Companies operating video slot machines in Wyoming bars are challenging the attorney general's opinion that the games constitute illegal gambling.

The vendors, Wyoming Skills LLC, argue the games include an element of skill that exempts the games from state gambling laws.

After each spin, players have 15 seconds to "nudge" one reel up or down or to "swap" a logo to display a winning combination.

However, Attorney General Peter Michael noted in his Dec. 11 opinion that some spins are predetermined losers and operators keep a percentage of the wagers, so the video machines are illegal gambling.

Vendors are asking a Natrona County judge for an injunction to prevent law enforcement from acting on Michael's opinion until a ruling is made.

About 300 machines were in operation around the state.