House Bill No. introduced by E. Buttrey aims to revise laws related to gambling route operators, particularly focusing on those who also hold licenses to sell alcoholic beverages. The bill establishes restrictions to prevent unfair competitive advantages for route operators in the acquisition and administration of alcoholic beverage licenses. Specifically, it prohibits these operators from using financial data that could give them an unfair edge in the market, including information about other alcoholic beverage licensees, gambling locations, and consumer gambling data. Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations of these provisions and mandates that route operators cannot restrict access to video gambling machines based on their own alcoholic beverage licenses.

The bill also amends existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically Sections 23-5-129 and 23-5-603. Notably, it introduces a provision that allows the department to revoke or deny renewal of a route operator's license if they are found to have violated the new restrictions. Furthermore, it clarifies the placement of video gambling machines in licensed premises, ensuring they are accessible only to those of legal age and under the control of the operator. The amendments aim to enhance regulatory oversight and ensure fair competition within the gambling and alcohol sales industries.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 23-5-129, 23-5-603
HB0787_1(1): 23-5-129, 23-5-603
HB0787_1: 23-5-129, 23-5-603