Bryan Stalder
Contributor

Unregulated slot-style gaming machines have quietly appeared in convenience stores, gas stations, and social halls across Missouri — including in Kansas City’s Northeast neighborhoods. While these so-called “no-chance” or “pre-reveal” games mimic casino slot machines, they operate outside state oversight, pay no dedicated taxes to education, and are often installed in working-class areas where gambling losses can have a deeper impact.

A federal jury in early October ruled that the state’s most prominent operator of these devices, Torch Electronics, misled businesses by claiming its machines were legal. The verdict has renewed public debate about whether these machines violate Missouri gambling laws and whether local governments should act where state enforcement has lagged.

Kansas City Councilmembers (6th District) Johnathan Duncan and Andrea Bough introduced a measure to directly address the issue. On Thursday, October 16, the City Council voted to approve the ordinance, amending Chapter 50 of the City Code to prohibit the operation and maintenance of electronic gaming machines that offer monetary prizes within city limits. The ordinance also directs the City Manager to report back to the Council within 90 days with recommendations for enforcement and public education.

This new ban is expected to impact several Northeast businesses currently hosting these slot machines, many of which rely on the steady revenue they generate. Community advocates have raised concerns that the games exploit residents in economically vulnerable areas and divert money away from legitimate entertainment and neighborhood investment.

“I introduced legislation to ban gray gaming machines after a shooting occurred at one of these all-night game rooms in my district,” said Councilman Duncan. “These machines draw criminal activity and turn gas stations and our neighborhoods into 24/7 casinos.”

The Council is expected to continue discussions on enforcement strategies and timelines for compliance in the coming weeks.