HB 18-1234 Summary

• Clarifies Colorado law governing simulated gambling devices and activities by establishing exemptions for individuals and businesses that ceased operations by July 1, 2018.

• Provides safe harbor protection from seizure and criminal liability for owners, operators, employees, and customers who have a lawful contract to sell or transfer all simulated gambling devices to a person or jurisdiction where the activity is legal.

• Requires completion of device sales or transfers within 180 days after contract execution or after law enforcement return of seized devices, whichever is later, with clear documentation provided to the district attorney.

• Amends definitions in Colorado gambling statutes to clarify what constitutes simulated gambling devices and excludes certain amusement devices and pari-mutuel racing equipment from these definitions.

• Applies retroactively to conduct occurring on or after the effective date of the act.