\nSuch was an opinion handed down from Attorney General John Suthers\u2019 office last week.<\/p>\n
\tIn the opinion, the attorney general noted, \u201cBecause all three elements: consideration, chance and prize are present, under Colorado law, the activity occurring at sweepstakes cafes in Colorado constitutes illegal gambling.\u201d<\/p>\n
\tIt\u2019s hard to argue with that interpretation. We took note of the opinion because six such cafes operate here in Pueblo.<\/p>\n
\tCybercafes sell Internet access to customers. They also make available a variety of digital computer games, many of which bear a striking resemblance to slot machines. Participants may win \u201csweepstakes points\u201d that are redeemable for cash or prizes.<\/p>\n
\tProponents of cybercafes argue that the systems require more skill and less chance than casino gambling, therefore making them sweepstakes winnings. However, the opinion from the attorney general found that in order for the cafes to qualify for the sweepstakes exemption, customers had to have a staff member \u2014 rather than a computer \u2014 certify winnings.<\/p>\n
\tThe opinion also said it\u2019s up to local law agencies to enforce the legality of the cafes.<\/p>\n
\tPolice Chief Luis Velez assured us his team is up to the task.<\/p>\n
\t\u201cWe have a few locations in the city with machines that appear to be and look like gaming machines,\u201d the chief said last week. \u201cAnd we thought it was illegal gambling. Now, with this opinion, we can revisit these locations, have a conversation with the owners and tell them that if they continue to use the machines, they will be cited.\u201d<\/p>\n
\tColorado law provides a pathway for legal gambling \u2014 a constitutional amendment. That\u2019s how the Colorado Lottery and the mountain gaming towns got established and it\u2019s the pathway proponents of extended gaming at horse tracks are pursuing this election.<\/p>\n
\tSo we say, if the owners of these cafes are confident in the need for and uniqueness of their model, put it before the voters. Let the public decide whether further gaming is necessary in the Centennial State. In the meantime, we are encouraged by Chief Velez\u2019s stated commitment to enforcing the law and strongly encourage him to do so expeditiously.<\/p>\n