Slot machines.

Existing law, subject to exceptions, generally prohibits the possession and use of a "slot machine or device" as defined, and prohibits certain other acts and transactions pertaining to slot machines or devices. Existing law provides varying definitions of "slot machine or device" for these purposes. Violations of these provisions are punishable by varying misdemeanor penalties. This bill would increase those misdemeanor penalties to provide that a first offense under these provisions would be punishable by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $1,000, or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding 6 months, or by both that fine and imprisonment, that a 2nd offense would be punishable by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000, or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding 6 months, or by both that fine and imprisonment, and that a 3rd or subsequent offense would be punishable by a fine of not less than $10,000, nor more than $25,000, or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment. The bill would also provide that if the offense involved more than one machine or more than one location, an additional fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $5,000 would be imposed per machine and per location. By increasing the penalties for existing crimes, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.