The Louisiana Legislature convened on September 18, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the Louisiana Administrative Code concerning gaming regulations. The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed rule changes to ensure compliance with newly enacted federal laws regarding jackpot payouts and internal controls for slot machines.

Assistant Attorney General Catherine Gitts presented the proposed amendments to Louisiana Administrative Code Title 42, Part 3, specifically sections 325 and 723. These changes are designed to align state regulations with federal reporting requirements, particularly concerning jackpot payouts. The amendments will allow for automatic compliance with future federal changes, eliminating the need for further board action.

One key change involves the penalty schedule for violations related to jackpot payout slips. Currently, violations involving payouts greater than $1,200 incur a base penalty of $1,000, with a prescriptive period of 12 months. The proposed amendment will broaden the violation description to include payouts exceeding the threshold for filing a W-2G form, while maintaining the existing penalty structure.

Additionally, the internal controls for slot machines will be updated. The current requirement mandates verification by an additional permanent gaming employee for jackpots under $1,200. The amendment will adjust this threshold to match the federal reporting requirement, ensuring that proper verification is in place for all payouts that necessitate federal documentation.

After the presentation, the board members were invited to ask questions. With no inquiries raised, a motion was made by Judge Scholes and seconded by Ms. Becknell to institute the rule-making procedures. The motion passed unanimously, allowing the proposed changes to move forward.

These amendments are significant as they not only ensure compliance with federal laws but also aim to streamline the regulatory process for gaming operations in Louisiana. The board's swift action reflects a commitment to maintaining robust oversight in the gaming industry while adapting to evolving federal standards.