This is one of the proposed rules and regulations drafted by the Rota Casino Gaming Commission.
The commission said it wants to promote the welfare of the community, minimize social ills and criminality and promote fiscal responsibility.
In an interview, former Sen. Diego M. Songao, the commission’s chairman, said the proposal of a local business group, the Strategic Economic Development Council, to phase out the poker machines is advantageous to casinos.
“It would be better for the casinos if there’s no poker outside the casinos,” he said.
SEDC said poker addiction has become rampant and is linked to rise in criminality in the CNMI.
According to Songao, the commission is proceeding “slowly” because of its limited funds.
But they continue to receive inquiries from prospective casino investors, he said.
“We are trying to sell our product to international investors,” he told Variety.
They have, so far, received “good comments” regarding their proposed rules and regulations, which he described as “well-written.”
Also to be prohibited from playing at the casino are those addicted to gambling, gaming assistants, casino key employees, clerks and operators.
“The casino operator will implement policies and procedures designed to identify individuals exhibiting behavior evidencing a problem with gambling,” the proposed rules stated.
Those under 18 years old, persons who appear to be intoxicated and members or employees of the commission are also prohibited to play at the casino.
Songao said temporary license application fee is only $500 not $500,000 as earlier reported.
The rules will also allow a temporary casino license to be issued to chartered non-profit organizations based on Rota that want to raise funds for charitable purposes and other good causes.
The qualified organization will only be given 15 days to operate every year.
