Kentucky Charitable Gaming Machines Resume Operation

Louisville, November 27, 2025

A Jefferson County Circuit Court judge has granted a temporary restraining order allowing charitable gaming machines in Kentucky to restart after a state-mandated shutdown. The shutdown occurred due to illegal activities involving the machines, causing significant financial losses for nonprofit organizations. Three groups have filed a lawsuit against the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission, asserting that the shutdown unfairly impacted fundraising efforts. The situation will be further examined in a court hearing scheduled for December.

Louisville Judge’s Ruling Allows Kentucky’s Charitable Gaming Machines to Restart After Shutdown

Louisville, Kentucky – A Jefferson County Circuit Court judge has issued a temporary restraining order, allowing charitable gaming machines to resume operations after a state-ordered shutdown. This decision comes after the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission (KHRG) ordered the immediate shutdown of certain electronic pull-tab machines due to instances of illegal “fishing” activities, resulting in the theft of tens of thousands of dollars.

Background of the Shutdown

On November 21, 2025, KHRG directed nonprofits across Kentucky to cease using specific pull-tab charitable gaming machines. The shutdown was prompted by reports of scammers using laminated $100 bills and fishing lines to manipulate the machines, leading to significant financial losses.

Legal Action and Court’s Decision

In response to the shutdown, three nonprofit organizations—Shirley’s Way, Southwest Center for the Developmentally Disabled, and Educational Justice—filed a lawsuit against KHRG. They argued that the shutdown unfairly punished victims rather than perpetrators and disrupted essential fundraising activities. On November 25, 2025, Judge Annie O’Connell issued a temporary restraining order, allowing the machines to operate until a final ruling is made. A court hearing is scheduled for December 8, 2025, to further address the matter.

Impact on Charitable Organizations

The shutdown had a significant impact on charitable organizations that rely on gaming revenues for their operations. For instance, Shirley’s Way, a nonprofit focused on supporting cancer patients, reported that the shutdown affected nearly 90% of their gaming machines, threatening their ability to fund various community initiatives.

Industry Response

Light & Wonder Gaming, the manufacturer of the affected machines, responded by enhancing security features to prevent future fraudulent activities. The company emphasized its commitment to supporting Kentucky’s charitable organizations and ensuring the integrity of their gaming devices.

Regulatory Oversight

The Office of Charitable Gaming, now part of the Kentucky Horse Racing & Gaming Corporation, is responsible for regulating charitable gaming within the state. The office aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the wagering public and all participants in charitable gaming activities.

Looking Ahead

The temporary restraining order allows charitable gaming machines to operate while the legal proceedings continue. The upcoming court hearing will be crucial in determining the future of these operations and the regulatory measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Key Features of the Charitable Gaming Machines Issue

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Nonprofit Organizations Oppose New Charitable Gaming Regulations in Kentucky
Thieves Target Charity Gaming Machines in Louisville
Louisville’s Charities Struggle as Gaming Machines Shut Down

Author: HERE LOUISVILLE