Title 36 — Subtitle 05. Table Games

Chapter 01. General

Regulation .01 Scope.Link Copy Citation

This subtitle applies to the State’s Table Games Program.

Regulation .02 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

In addition to the terms defined in State Government Article, §9-1A-01, Annotated Code of Maryland and in COMAR 36.03.01.02, which have the same meanings in this subtitle, in this subtitle the following terms have the meanings indicated.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Ante” means the wager that a player may be required to make prior to any cards being dealt to participate in the round of play.

(2)

“Assistant table games shift manager” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to supervise all of the table games in a licensed facility and who may be authorized to act as the table games shift manager in his absence.

(3)

“Automated card shuffling device” means a software compatible mechanical or electronic contrivance that automatically randomizes playing cards, either continuously or on command, to be utilized for table gaming activity.

(4)

“Bad Beat” means one or more predesignated high value Poker hands which, when held by a player as a losing hand in a round of play, results in a Bad Beat payout.

(5)

“Bad Beat payout” means one or more payouts made to a player upon the occurrence of a Bad Beat.

(6)

“Banking table game” means a table game in which a player competes against a facility operator rather than against another player.

(7)

“Boxperson” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to participate in and supervise the conduct of gaming at a single craps table.

(8)

“Cover card” means an opaque card that is a solid color readily distinguishable from the color of the backs and edges of the playing cards.

(9)

Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Game.

(a)

“Dealer controlled electronic table game” means a table game or table game equipment that:

(i)

Requires a live dealer to operate it;

(ii)

Utilizes electronics as part of the games operation to collect and store game outcome, accounting and other significant event data; and

(iii)

Permits wagering to be conducted electronically at a table game that is operated by a dealer.

(b)

A “dealer controlled electronic table game” may not randomly determine the game of chance.

(10)

“Dealing shoe” means a device that holds multiple decks of playing cards that the dealer deals during the operation of a table game.

(11)

“Direct Bet Coupon” means an approved wagering instrument with a stated denomination that, when presented at a banking game, the patron may use for wagering.

(12)

“Fill” means the distribution of gaming chips, coins, and plaques to a gaming table to replenish the table inventory.

(13)

“Match Play Coupon” means an approved wagering instrument with a stated denomination that when presented with gaming chips at a banking game is included in the amount of the patron’s wager.

(14)

“Nonbanking table game” means a table game in which a player competes against another player and in which the facility operator collects a rake.

(15)

“Pit clerk” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to prepare documentation required for the operation of table games, including requests for fills, requests for credits, counter checks or other documents that evidence the exchange of gaming chips.

(16)

“Pit manager” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to supervise all of the table games in one or more gaming pits.

(17)

“Poker rake chip” means a chip used by dealers to facilitate the collection of the rake in the poker room.

(18)

“Poker shift manager” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to supervise all of the poker tables in a poker room.

(19)

“Rake” means a set fee or percentage assessed by a facility operator for providing the services of a dealer, gaming table or location, to allow the play or operation of any nonbanking game.

(20)

“Roulette chip” means a nonvalue chip which does not contain a denomination on either face which is used for wagering at the game of Roulette.

(21)

“Round of play” means one complete cycle of play during which all wagers have been placed, all cards have been dealt and all wagers have been settled in accordance with the rules of the game.

(22)

“Standard rules” means the basic requirements that govern the play of a table game approved by the Commission.

(23)

“Stickperson” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to control the selection and use of the dice at a craps table.

(24)

“Stub” means the remaining portion of a deck or decks after all cards in a round of play have been dealt.

(25)

“Suit” means one of the four categories of cards:

(a)

Clubs;

(b)

Diamonds;

(c)

Hearts; or

(d)

Spades.

(26)

“Table games shift manager” means an employee of a facility operator whose primary function is to supervise all of the table game operations in a licensed facility during a shift.

(27)

“Table inventory” means the chips, coins, or plaques used for the operation of a table game.

(28)

“Table inventory container” means the area of a gaming table where a boxman or dealer keeps gaming chips, coins or plaques used for the operation of a table game.

(29)

“Tournament chip” means a chip used for wagering in a table game tournament or poker tournament.

(30)

“Washing” means mixing of a deck or decks of cards or tiles by placing the cards or tiles face down on a table and mixing them around with both hands so that they are in no particular order.

(31)

“Vigorish” means a percentage commission that is taken by a facility operator from a wager placed by a player or the winnings of a player.

Chapter 02. Table Game Equipment

Regulation .01 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

In this chapter the following terms have the meanings indicated.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Chip runner” means an employee of a facility operator whose job duties include transporting cash to the poker room cage or the poker cashier window at the main cage for dealers or players of the poker room to be exchanged for value chips.

(2)

“Edge” means the surface of a gaming chip across which its thickness can be measured in a perpendicular line from one face to the other.

(3)

“Edge spot” means an identifying characteristic used on the edge of each value chip issued by a facility operator.

(4)

“Face” means each of the two surfaces of a gaming chip across which the diameter of the gaming chip can be measured.

(5)

“Game account” means the funds that are available to a player for use at a dealer controlled electronic table game.

(6)

“Impress” means the roulette chips, which are used for gaming, that remain at each roulette table.

(7)

“Impressment” means an inventory conducted on each impress.

(8)

“Primary color” means the predominant color used on a gaming chip.

(9)

“RFID card” means a card which contains a radio-frequency identification tag which can be used to determine the value on the face of the card.

(10)

“RFID chip” means a value or roulette chip which contains a radio-frequency identification tag which can be used to determine the authenticity of the chip.

(11)

“Secondary color” means any color on the face or edge of the gaming chip that is used as a contrast to the gaming chip’s primary color.

Regulation .02 Gaming Chips and Promotional Chips.Link Copy Citation

A gaming chip issued by a facility operator shall be in the form of a disk.

A gaming chip may not be issued by a facility operator or utilized in a facility until:

(1)

The facility operator submits to the Commission for approval the design specifications of the proposed gaming chip, including a detailed schematic depicting the actual size and location of:

(a)

Each face, including any indentations or impressions;

(b)

The edge; and

(c)

Any colors, words, designs, graphics, or security measures contained on the gaming chip;

(2)

The facility operator submits to the Commission, a sample of each gaming chip, manufactured in accordance with its approved design specifications; and

(3)

The Commission approves the gaming chip design under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

To prevent the counterfeiting of the gaming chip, a gaming chip issued by a facility operator shall be designed and manufactured with graphics and security measures required to appear on the face or edge of a value chip under this regulation and Regulation.03 of this chapter.

Prohibitions.

(1)

A facility operator may not issue, use or allow a player to use in its facility, a gaming chip that it knows, or reasonably should know, is materially different from the sample of a gaming chip approved in accordance with §B of this regulation.

(2)

A facility operator or other person licensed by the Commission may not manufacture, sell or distribute to, or use in, a licensed facility outside of Maryland a gaming chip that has the same edge spot or design specifications as a chip approved for use in a facility in Maryland.

Promotional Nongaming Chips.

(1)

A facility operator may issue a promotional nongaming chip that:

(a)

Is unique from an approved gaming chip and promotional chip in size or color;

(b)

Has no edge designs; and

(c)

On both faces, bears:

(i)

The name of the facility issuing the promotional nongaming chip; and

(ii)

Language that the promotional nongaming chip has no redeemable value.

(2)

A promotional nongaming chip may not be used for table game play in a facility.

(3)

To prevent confusion with approved gaming chips in use in Maryland facilities, the physical characteristics of promotional nongaming chips must be sufficiently distinguishable from approved gaming chips.

(4)

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission for approval a detailed schematic depicting the actual size, face, and any colors, words, designs, or graphics on the promotional nongaming chip under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

A facility operator may issue a promotional chip with value that is permitted to be used for gaming purposes in a licensed facility.

(1)

The physical characteristics of promotional chips with value must be sufficiently distinguishable from approved gaming chips issued by any facility operator in Maryland so as to reasonably ensure that the promotional chips with value will not to be confused with approved gaming chips and promotional nongaming chips.

(2)

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission for approval, under COMAR 36.05.03.16, a detailed schematic depicting the actual size, face and any colors, words, designs or graphics on the promotional gaming chip.

(3)

At a minimum, a promotional gaming chip shall:

(a)

Be unique in terms of size or color;

(b)

Have no edge designs;

(c)

Bear the name of the facility operator issuing the promotional gaming chip; and

(d)

Contain language on both faces stating value of the promotional chip.

(4)

A promotional chip with value may be redeemed only at a gaming table in which a player wagers against the house.

(5)

The dealer shall deposit the promotional chip with value into the drop box attached to the gaming table at the time the winning wager is paid or the losing wager is collected.

(6)

If the wager wins, it shall be paid in accordance with the terms and conditions of the promotional chip.

Regulation .03 Value Chips.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator may issue and use value chips in denominations of $1, $2, $2.50, $5, $20, $25, $100, $500, $1,000, $5,000, $10,000, $25,000, and other denominations approved in advance by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

A primary color may not be used as a secondary color on a value chip of another denomination if its use on the edge is reasonably likely to cause confusion as to the chip’s denomination when the edge alone is visible.

A manufacturer shall submit sample color disks to the Commission that identify all primary and secondary colors to be used for the manufacture of value chips for facility operators in Maryland.

The Commission may not approve a primary color for use in a value chip unless it visually appears, when viewed in daylight or incandescent light, as the following colors for these denominations:

(1)

$1, white;

(2)

$2, blue;

(3)

$2.50, pink;

(4)

$5, red;

(5)

$20, yellow;

(6)

$25, green;

(7)

$100, black;

(8)

$500, purple;

(9)

$1,000, fire orange;

(10)

$5,000, brown;

(11)

$10,000, silver; and

(12)

$25,000, gold.

After the Commission has approved a manufacturer’s primary or secondary color for a gaming chip, the color shall be consistently manufactured in accordance with the approved sample color disk.

At least once on any location of each face of a value chip, a value chip issued by a facility operator must contain identifying characteristics that are applied in a manner ensuring that each identifying characteristic is clearly visible and remains a permanent part of the value chip.

The identifying characteristics required under §F of this regulation shall be visible to surveillance employees using the licensed facility’s surveillance system, and include:

(1)

The denomination of the value chip, expressed in numbers;

(2)

The name, logo or other Commission-approved identification of the facility operator issuing the value chip; and

(3)

The letters “MD” and the name of the city or county in which the licensed facility is located.

In addition to the characteristics specified in §G of this regulation, a value chip in a denomination of $100 or more must contain a design or other identifying characteristic that is unique to the gaming chip manufacturer.

After the Commission approves a manufacturer’s value chip design or characteristic under COMAR 36.05.03.16:

(1)

The manufacturer has the exclusive right to use that design or characteristic on any denomination of value chip;

(2)

The approved unique design or characteristic:

(a)

May be used on all value chips manufactured for use in Maryland; and

(b)

May be changed only after receiving the Commission’s written approval of a new unique design or other identifying characteristic under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

Each value chip issued by a facility operator must contain an edge spot that:

(1)

Is applied in a manner that ensures the edge spot:

(a)

Is clearly visible on the edge and on each face of the value chip; and

(b)

Remains a permanent part of the value chip; and

(2)

Is created using both:

(a)

The primary color of the chip; and

(b)

One or more secondary colors; and

(3)

Includes a design, pattern, or other feature that an individual may use to identify, through the facility’s surveillance system, the denomination of a particular value chip that is in:

(a)

A stack of gaming chips;

(b)

The table inventory; or

(c)

Any other location when only the edge of the value chip is visible.

A facility operator shall use as a secondary color to make an edge spot on a particular denomination of value chip only a secondary color that is reasonably likely to differentiate the facility operator’s value chip from the same denomination of value chip issued by any other facility operator in the State.

If an approved value chip uses a single secondary color, no other facility operator may use a similar secondary color as the sole secondary color on the same denomination of value chip unless it is used in a different pattern or design approved by the Commission.

A facility operator may not use the identical combination of secondary colors on the same denomination of value chip unless it is used in a different pattern or design approved by the Commission.

A value chip issued by a facility operator is limited to a specific size for each denomination:

(1)

Less than $500 must have a uniform diameter of 1-9/16 inch;

(2)

$500 and $1,000 must have a uniform diameter of 1-9/16 inch or 1-11/16 inch; and

(3)

$5,000 or more must have a uniform diameter of 1-11/16 inch.

In addition to the features that are required under this regulation to appear on the face and edge of a value chip:

(1)

Each value chip with a denomination below $100 must contain at least one anti-counterfeiting measure; and

(2)

Each value chip with a denomination of $100 or more must contain at least two anti-counterfeiting measures.

Regulation .04 Roulette Chips.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall issue a roulette chip solely for the purpose of gaming at roulette.

At least once on any location of each face of a roulette chip, a roulette chip issued by a facility operator must contain identifying characteristics that are applied in a manner ensuring that each identify characteristic is clearly visible and remains a permanent part of the roulette chip.

The identifying characteristics required under §B of this regulation shall be visible to surveillance employees using the facility’s surveillance system, and include:

(1)

The name, logo or other Commission-approved identification of the facility operator issuing the roulette chip;

(2)

A unique design, insert or symbol that will permit a set of roulette chips being used at a particular roulette table to be distinguished from the roulette chips being used at another roulette table in the facility;

(3)

The word “Roulette”;

(4)

Color and design combinations distinguish the roulette chips of a player at a particular roulette table from:

(a)

The roulette chips of another player at the same roulette table; and

(b)

The value chips issued by a facility operator; and

(5)

An edge spot that:

(a)

Is applied in a manner which ensures that the edge spot;

(b)

Is clearly visible on the edge and on each face of the roulette chip; and

(c)

Remains a permanent part of the roulette chip; and

(d)

Is created by using the colors approved for the face of the particular roulette chip in combination with one or more other colors that provides a contrast with the color on the face of the roulette chip and that enables the roulette chip to be distinguished from the roulette chips issued by any other facility operator; and

(e)

Includes a design, pattern or other feature that an individual may use to identify, through the facility’s surveillance system, the player to whom the roulette chip has been assigned when the roulette chip is placed in a stack of gaming chips or in any other location where only the edge of the roulette chip is visible.

Regulation .05 Roulette Chips—Permitted Uses, Inventory, and Impressment.Link Copy Citation

A roulette chip shall be issued to a particular roulette table and be used for gaming at that table only, and:

(1)

A roulette chip used at a particular roulette table must have the same design, insert or symbol as required under Regulation .04 of this chapter; and

(2)

A facility operator or an employee may not knowingly allow a player to remove a roulette chip from the roulette table to which it was issued.

A player at a roulette table may not purchase or be permitted to game with roulette chips that are identical in color and design to any roulette chip purchased by another player at the same table. When a player purchases a roulette chip, the dealer shall place a:

(1)

Roulette chip of the same color and design in a slot or receptacle attached to the outer rim of the roulette wheel, or in another device or location approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16; and

(2)

Marker button denoting the value of a stack of 20 roulette chips of the same color and design in the slot, receptacle or other device.

At least once every 3 months, a floorperson, or higher-ranking individual specified in the facility operator’s internal controls, shall complete an impressment of the Roulette chips assigned to a roulette table; and:

(1)

The facility operator shall record the results of the impressment in the chip inventory ledger required under Regulation .11 of this chapter;

(2)

If additional roulette chips are required to restore the impress, the floorperson, or higher-ranking individual specified in the facility operator’s internal controls, shall complete a Roulette Chip Impressment Form.

The completed Roulette Chip Impressment Form required under §C(2) of this regulation shall be maintained by the accounting department and contain at least the following:

(1)

The date and time of preparation;

(2)

The design schematic of the chip, including its primary color and the applicable table number;

(3)

The number of roulette chips needed to restore the impress;

(4)

The signature of the individual who completes the Roulette Chip Impressment Form and the impressment for the table; and

(5)

The signature of the main bank cashier or chip bank cashier who issued the roulette chips to restore the impress.

The accounting department shall immediately report a discrepancy in the impressment to a Commission compliance representative on a written report that includes at least the following for each roulette chip color and design:

(1)

The balance on hand at the beginning of the 3-month period;

(2)

The number of roulette chips distributed to the roulette table during the 3-month period;

(3)

The number of roulette chips returned to inventory during the 3-month period; and

(4)

The balance on hand at the end of the 3-month period.

Regulation .06 Tournament Chips.Link Copy Citation

If a facility operator conducts a table game tournament, the tournament shall be conducted using tournament chips.

The identifying characteristics of a tournament chip must include at least:

(1)

The name, logo, or other approved identification of the facility operator issuing the tournament chip;

(2)

The word “Tournament”;

(3)

The denomination of the chip;

(4)

The phrase “No Cash Value”;

(5)

Color or design combinations that distinguish the tournament chips from:

(a)

Roulette chips used for the play of roulette at the facility;

(b)

Value chips issued by a facility operator in the State; and

(c)

Poker rake chips.

A facility operator shall store tournament chips in a secure area approved in advance by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

A facility operator shall conduct an inventory of all tournament chips prior to the start and after the completion of each tournament.

A facility operator shall send a weekly report to Commission compliance representatives of a discrepancy in the inventory on a report that shall include the balance for each denomination of tournament chip on hand at the beginning of the tournament and the balance on hand at the end of each tournament.

Regulation .07 Poker Rake Chips.Link Copy Citation

To facilitate the collection of the rake, a facility operator may use poker rake chips in the poker room.

Poker rake chips:

(1)

Shall only be used by dealers; and

(2)

May only be substituted for value chips that have been collected as part of the rake prior to the rake being placed in a drop box.

A dealer shall keep unused poker rake chips in the table inventory container.

The denominations that may be used for poker rake chips are $2, $3, or $4.

The identifying characteristics of a poker rake chip must include:

(1)

The name, logo or other approved identification of the facility operator;

(2)

The words “Poker Rake Chip”;

(3)

One of the following denominations:

(a)

“$2”;

(b)

“$3”;or

(c)

“$4”; and

(4)

Color or design combinations to distinguish the poker rake chips from:

(a)

Roulette chips used for the play of roulette at the facility;

(b)

Tournament chips used for tournament play at the facility; and

(c)

Value chips issued by any facility operator in the State.

Regulation .08 Additional Gaming Chips; Removing Chips from Use.Link Copy Citation

Value Chips.

(1)

Within 120 days of the commencement of table games at a facility, the facility operator shall have at least one Commission-approved set of value chips that may be used as a back-up for $100 and $500 value chips in active use.

(2)

A back-up set of value chips maintained for use by a facility operator shall have secondary colors that are different from the secondary colors of the value chips in active use and may use a different shade of the primary color.

(3)

A back-up set of value chips shall conform to the color and design requirements in this chapter.

Roulette Chips.

(1)

A facility operator shall have at least one reserve set of roulette chips for each color roulette chip used in the facility with a design insert or symbol different from the roulette chips comprising the primary sets.

(2)

A back-up set of roulette chips must conform to the color and design requirements in this chapter.

RFID chips. If a facility operator uses RFID chips for its value or roulette chips, the facility operator may submit a request to the Commission for waiver of the requirements in §A or B of this regulation B that shall include at least:

(1)

A detailed description of the RFID technology and devices that will be used at the facility;

(2)

A detailed description of how the RFID chips and related equipment will be used in the facility;

(3)

A detailed explanation of how the use of the RFID chips and related equipment will reduce or eliminate the potential use of counterfeit value or roulette chips; and

(4)

The approximate length of time it will take the facility operator to install the necessary devices and related equipment for the RFID technology to be operational in the facility.

The facility operator shall remove a set of gaming chips in use from active play when:

(1)

A facility operator reasonably believes that the facility is taking on multiple counterfeit chips valued at $100 or more so as to call into question the security and integrity of the gaming chip set;

(2)

A facility operator determines there is an impropriety or defect in the use of a set of chips makes removal of the chips in active use necessary; and

(3)

The Commission directs a facility operator to remove a set of chips from active use.

A facility operator shall place into active play a Commission- approved back-up set of value chips or a reserve set of roulette chips required under §§A and B of this regulation when an active set is removed.

Before a set of chips in active use is removed from play, the facility operator shall notify the Commission compliance representatives of the impending removal and the reasons for the removal.

A facility operator shall immediately notify a Commission compliance representative of the discovery of counterfeit value chips.

Regulation .09 Plaques.Link Copy Citation

A plaque issued by a facility operator shall be a solid, one-piece object constructed entirely of plastic or other substance, and a plaque shall:

(1)

Be square, rectangular, or elliptical in shape;

(2)

Have at least two, but not more than six, smooth, plane surfaces;

(3)

Have at least two faces opposite and parallel to each other and identical in shape;

A facility operator shall not issue a plaque or allow its use in a facility unless:

(1)

The facility operator submitted design specifications of the proposed plaque to the Commission that included a detailed schematic depicting the actual size and location of:

(a)

Each face;

(b)

The edge; and

(c)

Any colors, words, designs, graphics, or security measures on the plaque including the minimum identifying characteristics listed in §F of this regulation;

(2)

In accordance with COMAR 36.05.03.16, the facility operator made available for the Commission’s inspection a sample plaque of each denomination to be manufactured and used in accordance with its approved design specifications;

(3)

The Commission approved the facility operator’s submissions; and

(4)

The facility operator submitted to the Commission a system of internal procedures and administrative and accounting controls governing the distribution, redemption, receipt and inventory of plaques, by serial number that the Commission approved as part of the facility operator’s internal controls.

Dimensions of a Plaque.

(1)

The face of a square plaque shall have a surface area of not less than 9 square inches.

(2)

The face of a rectangular or elliptical plaque may not be less than 3 inches in length by 2 inches in width.

(3)

The length and width of an elliptical plaque shall be measured by its axes.

A plaque issued by a facility operator shall be designed and manufactured with sufficient graphics or other security measures to prevent, to the extent possible, the counterfeiting of the plaque.

Denominations.

(1)

A facility operator may issue and use plaques in denominations of $5,000 or $10,000, and in other denominations approved by the Commission in advance under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

(2)

A plaque of a specific denomination used by a facility operator shall be in a shape and of a size that is identical to the shape and size of all other plaques of that denomination issued by the facility operator.

(3)

The size and shape of each denomination of plaque issued by a facility operator must be readily distinguishable from the size and shape of every other denomination of plaque issued by the facility operator.

A plaque issued by a facility operator must contain identifying characteristics that appear at least once on each face of the plaque and are applied in a manner that ensures each identifying characteristic is clearly visible and remains a permanent part of the plaque.

The characteristics required under §F of this regulation must be visible to surveillance employees using the licensed facility’s surveillance system, and shall include at least:

(1)

The denomination of the plaque, expressed in numbers of at least 3/8 inch in height;

(2)

The name, logo, or other approved identification of the facility operator issuing the plaque; and

(3)

A unique serial number.

A facility operator may not issue, use, or allow a player to use in its facility, any plaque that it knows, or reasonably should know, is materially different from the sample of that plaque approved in accordance with §B of this regulation.

Regulation .10 Permissible Wagers; Exchange and Redemption of Chips and Plaques.Link Copy Citation

Wagering at table games in a facility shall be conducted with gaming chips, plaques, electronic wagering credits, and other wagering instruments approved in advance by the Commission.

A value chip previously issued by a facility operator that is not in active use by that facility operator may not be used for any gaming purpose in a facility, and may be redeemed only at the cage as provided in §E of this regulation.

A facility operator shall issue a gaming chip or plaque to a player only at the request of the player, and may not be given as change in any transaction other than a gaming transaction.

A gaming chip or plaque shall be issued to player by:

(1)

A dealer at a banking or nonbanking table game;

(2)

The poker room cage, poker room impressed bank or the poker window cashier at the main cage; or

(3)

A chip runner to a player seated at a poker table at which a game is in progress.

A player may redeem a plaque or value chip only at the cage.

Except as provided in §§L and M of this regulation, or as otherwise approved in advance by the Commission, a facility operator shall redeem a gaming chip or plaque that it issued only from players.

Roulette Chips.

(1)

A player may present a roulette chip for redemption only at the roulette table from which it was issued.

(2)

When a player presents a roulette chip for redemption, a dealer shall accept it in exchange for an equivalent amount of value chips.

Value Chips at Roulette.

(1)

A facility operator may permit, limit or prohibit the use of a value chip in gaming at roulette in accordance with its rules submission submitted under COMAR 36.05.03.19.

(2)

If a value chip is use at roulette, the facility operator and its employees shall keep accurate account of the wagers being made with value chips so that wager made by one player are not confused with the wagers made by another player at the table.

A gaming chip or plaque is solely evidence of a debt that the issuing facility operator owes to an individual legally in possession of the gaming chip or plaque, and it remains the property of the issuing facility operator.

Redemption at the Facility.

(1)

A facility operator shall have the right at any time to demand that an individual possessing a gaming chip or plaque surrender the gaming chip or plaque for redemption in accordance with this regulation.

(2)

Unless a gaming chip or plaque was obtained or is being used unlawfully, a facility operator shall promptly redeem its gaming chip or plaque presented by a player.

(3)

A facility operator shall redeem its value chip or plaque by:

(a)

Exchanging the value chip or plaque for an equivalent amount of cash; or

(b)

Exchanging the value chip or plaque for a check issued by the facility operator in the amount of the value chip or plaque surrendered and dated the day of the redemption.

Redemption by Mail.

(1)

Notwithstanding the requirements of §J of this regulation, if a player requests by mail to redeem value chips, in any amount, by mail, a facility operator may effectuate the redemption in accordance with its approved internal controls.

(2)

A facility operator’s internal controls for redemption of a value chip by mail shall, at a minimum, include procedures for the:

(a)

Facility operator’s issuance of a check to the player; and

(b)

Transfer of a surrendered value chip to the chip bank in a documented transaction.

A facility operator shall accept, exchange, use or redeem only a gaming chip or plaque that the facility operator has issued and may not knowingly accept, exchange, use or redeem a gaming chip or plaque, or an object that appears to be a gaming chip or plaque, that has been issued by any other facility operator.

Notwithstanding §L of this regulation, a facility operator may accept and redeem a value chip issued by another facility operator in the State from a player.

Employee Receiving a Value Chip as Gratuity.

(1)

A video lottery employee of a facility operator may receive a value chip as a gratuity.

(2)

A video lottery employee may receive a value chip in exchange for food or beverage that a player purchases from the video lottery employee.

(3)

A video lottery employee of a facility operator who receives a value chip as a gratuity, or in exchange for food or beverage, shall redeem the value chip prior to leaving the facility at the end of the work shift during which the employee received the value chip.

(4)

A value chip received by a video lottery employee shall be redeemed at the cage or at another secure location approved in advance by the Commission.

(5)

A value chip received by a video lottery employee that is redeemed at a noncage employee redemption site shall be exchanged on a daily basis with the cage.

(6)

A facility operator shall include in its internal controls a means of ensuring the proper exchange and accounting of a value chip received as a gratuity or for the purchase of food and beverage.

Redemption of Facility Chips From Another Operator.

(1)

A facility operator shall promptly redeem its own value chip that is presented to it by another facility operator in the State.

(2)

A facility operator shall include in its internal controls a system for the exchange, with other legally operated facility operators, of a value chip that:

(a)

Is in the facility operator’s possession that has been issued by another facility operator in the State; and

(b)

The facility operator has issued that is presented to it for redemption by another facility operator in the State.

A facility operator shall post, in a prominent place on the front of the main cage, any satellite cage and the poker room cage, a sign that reads as follows: “Gaming chips or plaques issued by another facility may not be used, exchanged or redeemed in this facility.”

Regulation .11 Chips and Plaques—Receipt, Inventory, Security, Storage, and Destruction.Link Copy Citation

Receipt.

(1)

A shipment of gaming chips or plaques that is received from a manufacturer or supplier shall be unloaded and transported to a secure area, which is covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system, by at least two employees of the facility operator.

(2)

The chips or plaques shall then be opened and checked by at least two employees, who shall promptly report to a Commission compliance representative any deviation between the invoice accompanying the shipment of gaming chips or plaques and the actual chips or plaques received, or any defects found in the chips or plaques.

(3)

The functions required under §A(1) and (2) of this regulation shall be performed by at least the following employees of the facility operator:

(a)

A supervisor from the accounting department; and

(b)

An employee from the security department.

Inventory.

(1)

After a shipment of gaming chips or plaques is checked as required under §A of this regulation, the employees identified in §A(3) of this regulation shall record, in a chip inventory ledger, the:

(a)

Denomination of the value chips and plaques received;

(b)

Number of each denomination;

(c)

Serial numbers of the value chips and plaques received;

(d)

For any roulette chips received, the number and description of the roulette chips received;

(e)

Date of the receipt;

(f)

Signatures and license numbers of the employees who checked the chips and plaques.

(2)

If the value chips or roulette chips are not to be immediately put into active use, the chip inventory ledger must also identify the storage location of the chips.

Storage.

(1)

A gaming chip or plaque not in active use shall be stored in:

(a)

A vault located in the main bank;

(b)

Locked cabinets in the main cage; or

(c)

Another restricted storage area approved in advance by the Commission.

(2)

A gaming chip or plaque may not be stored in the same storage area as dice, cards, pai gow tiles or any other table game equipment.

(3)

When a gaming chip or plaque is removed from or returned to an approved storage area, at least the two employees identified in §A(3) of this regulation shall be present and ensure that the chip inventory ledger contains the following information:

(a)

Date;

(b)

Signatures and license numbers of the employees supervising the transaction;

(c)

Quantity;

(d)

If applicable, the serial numbers and dollar amounts for each denomination of value chip or plaque;

(e)

Number and description of the roulette chip;

(f)

Specific storage area being entered; and

(g)

Reason for the entry into the storage area.

At the end of each gaming day, a facility operator shall compute and record the unredeemed liability for each denomination of value chip and plaque according to procedures specified in the facility operator’s internal controls.

Inventory.

(1)

A facility operator shall inventory all sets of value chips, roulette chips and plaques in its possession and record the result of the inventory in the chip inventory ledger.

(2)

The inventory required under §E(1) of this regulation shall be conducted at least once every month for value chips and plaques and at least once every 3 months for roulette chips.

(3)

If a facility operator’s inventory procedures incorporate the sealing of the locked compartment containing the facility’s value chips, roulette chips, and plaques not in active use, a physical inventory of value chips, roulette chips, and plaques not in active use is required to be conducted annually.

(4)

A facility operator shall include in its internal controls the procedures to be utilized to inventory value chips, roulette chips, and plaques.

Destruction.

(1)

At least 5 days prior to the destruction of a gaming chip or plaque, a facility operator shall notify a Commission compliance representative of the:

(a)

Date and the location at which the destruction will be performed;

(b)

Denomination, number, and when applicable, the serial number and amount of value chips or plaques to be destroyed;

(c)

Description and number of roulette chips to be destroyed; and

(d)

Detailed explanation of the method of destruction.

(2)

The destruction of a gaming chip or plaque shall be carried out in the presence of at least the two employees identified in §A(3) of this regulation.

(3)

The facility operator shall record in the chip inventory ledger the names and license numbers of all employees and nonemployees involved in each destruction, and:

(a)

The denomination, quantity, total value, and serial number, if applicable, of all value chips or plaques destroyed;

(b)

The description and number of roulette chips destroyed;

(c)

The signatures and license numbers of the individuals who carried out the destruction; and

(d)

The date and location where the destruction took place.

A facility operator shall ensure that at all times there is adequate security for all gaming chips and plaques in the facility operator’s possession.

Regulation .12 Dice.Link Copy Citation

Except as otherwise provided in §§B and C of this regulation, each die used in the play of table games shall:

(1)

Be formed in the shape of a perfect cube and of a size not smaller than 0.750 inch on each side nor any larger than 0.775 inch on each side, with a tolerance of +/- 0.005;

(2)

Be transparent and made exclusively of cellulose except for the spots, name or logo of the facility operator, and serial number or letters on the die;

(3)

Be perfectly flat on the surface of each of its sides, with the spots contained in each side flush with the area surrounding them;

(4)

Have all edges and corners perfectly square and forming 90 degree angles.

(5)

Have the texture and finish of each side identical to the texture and finish of all other sides;

(6)

Have its weight equally distributed throughout the cube with no side of the cube heavier or lighter than any other side of the cube;

(7)

Have the six sides bearing white circular spots from one to six respectively with the diameter of each spot equal to the diameter of every other spot on the die;

(8)

Have spots arranged so that:

(a)

The side containing one spot is directly opposite the side containing six spots;

(b)

The side containing two spots is directly opposite the side containing five spots; and

(c)

The side containing three spots is directly opposite the side containing four spots;

(9)

Have each spot shall be placed on the die by drilling into the surface of the cube and filling the drilled out portion with a compound which is equal in weight to the weight of the cellulose drilled out and which forms a permanent bond with the cellulose cube and extends into the cube exactly the same distance as every other spot extends into the cube to an accuracy tolerance of 0.0004 inch;

(10)

Have imprinted or impressed on the die a serial number or letters and the name or logo of the facility operator using the die.

Pai Gow and Pai Gow Poker. Dice used in the table games of pai gow and pai gow poker must comply with the requirements of §A of this regulation, except as follows:

(1)

Each die must be formed in the shape of a perfect cube and of a size not smaller than 0.637 inch on each side nor any larger than 0.643 inch on each side;

(2)

With the Commission’s approval, a facility operator may have an identifying mark imprinted or impressed on each die instead of the name or logo of the facility operator; and

(3)

The spots on each die do not have to be equal in diameter.

Sic Bo. Dice used in the table game of sic bo must comply with §A of this regulation, except each die may be formed in the shape of a cube 0.625 inch on each side with ball edge corners.

Dice may not be used in a facility unless a detailed schematic depicting the actual size and color of the dice, and the location of serial numbers, letters or logos on the dice, has been submitted to, and approved by, the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

Regulation .13 Dice — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.Link Copy Citation

Receipt.

(1)

A shipment of dice that is received from a manufacturer or supplier shall be immediately unloaded and transported to a secure area which is covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system under the supervision of at least two employees of the facility operator.

(2)

The boxes of dice shall then be inspected by at least two employees of the facility operator to ensure that the seals on each box are intact, unbroken and free from tampering.

(a)

Boxes that do not appear to be intact, unbroken and free from tampering shall be immediately inspected to ensure that the dice in those boxes conform to the requirements of this chapter and there is no evidence of tampering with them.

(b)

If dice inspected as required under §A(2)(a) of this regulation show no evidence of tampering, they shall be placed, along with boxes of dice that are intact, unbroken and free from tampering, for storage.

(3)

Dice shall be stored in a storage area that the Commission has approved in advance under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

(4)

The functions required under §A(1), (2), and (3) of this regulation shall be performed by at least the following employees of the facility operator:

(a)

A floor supervisor or above; and

(b)

An employee from the security department.

Storage. The Commission-approved storage area must have two separate locks, to which access shall be controlled as follows:

(1)

The security department shall maintain one key and the gaming operations department shall maintain the other key; and

(2)

An employee of the gaming operations department, below a floorperson in the organizational hierarchy, may not have access to the gaming operations department key.

Dice which are to be distributed to gaming pits or tables for use in gaming shall be distributed from the approved storage area.

Once each gaming day and at other times as may be necessary, a floorperson or above, in the presence of a security department employee, shall remove the appropriate number of dice for that gaming day from the approved storage area.

Envelopes and containers used to hold or transport dice must be:

(1)

Transparent;

(2)

Designed or constructed with seals so that any tampering is evident; and

(3)

Submitted to the Commission and approved under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

Inspection and Distribution. Dice shall be inspected and distributed to the gaming tables in accordance with one of the following alternatives:

(1)

Alternative No. 1.

(a)

The floorperson or above, and the security department employee who removed the dice from the approved storage area, shall distribute sufficient dice directly to the pit manager or above in each pit, or place them in a locked compartment in the pit stand, the keys to which shall be in the possession of the pit manager or above.

(b)

Immediately upon opening a table for gaming, the floorperson or above shall distribute a set of dice to the table.

(i)

To ensure that the dice are in a condition to ensure fair play and otherwise conform to the requirements of this chapter, at the time of receipt of a set of dice, a floorperson at each craps, pai gow, pai gow poker, sic bo or mini-craps table, shall, in the presence of the dealer, inspect the dice with a micrometer or any other instrument approved by the Commission to perform the function of a micrometer, a balancing caliper, a steel set square and a magnet.

(ii)

The instruments described in §F(1)(b)(i) of this regulation shall be kept in a compartment at each craps table or pit stand and shall be at all times readily available for use by the Commission compliance representatives or other Commission employees.

(iii)

The inspection required under §F(1)(b)(i) of this regulation shall be performed on a flat surface which allows the dice inspection to be observed through the facility operator’s surveillance system and by any persons in the immediate vicinity of the table.

(c)

Following the inspection required under §F(1)(b)(i) of this regulation:

(i)

For craps, the floorperson shall, in the presence of a dealer, place the dice in a cup on the table for use in gaming;

(ii)

For mini-craps, the floorperson shall, in the presence of a dealer, place the dice in a cup on the table for use in gaming;

(iii)

For sic bo, the floorperson shall, in the presence of the dealer, place the required number of dice into the shaker and seal or lock the shaker, and the floorperson shall secure the sic bo shaker to the table in the presence of the dealer who observed the inspection; or

(iv)

For pai gow and pai gow poker, the floorperson shall, in the presence of the dealer, place the dice in the pai gow shaker.

(d)

The floorperson or above shall place extra dice for the dice reserve in the pit stand.

(i)

Dice in the pit stand shall be placed in a locked compartment, the keys to which shall be in the possession of the floorperson or above.

(ii)

No dice taken from the pit stand reserve may be used for actual gaming until the dice have been inspected in accordance with §F(1)(b)(i) of this regulation.

(2)

Alternative No. 2.

(a)

The pit manager or above and the security department employee who removed the dice from the approved storage area shall distribute the dice directly to the following facility operator’s employees who shall perform an inspection in each pit:

(i)

For craps and mini-craps, a floorperson in the presence of another floorperson, both of whom are assigned the responsibility of supervising the operation and conduct of a craps or mini-craps game;

(ii)

For sic bo, pai gow and pai gow poker, a floorperson, in the presence of another floorperson, both of whom are assigned the responsibility of supervising the operation and conduct of sic bo, pai gow or pai gow poker games;

(iii)

For storage of the dice for the dice reserve in the pit stand, to the pit manager or above.

(b)

To ensure that the dice are in a condition to ensure fair play and otherwise conform to the requirements of this chapter, at the time of receipt of a set of dice, the dice shall be inspected by one of the individuals listed in §F(2)(a) of this regulation with a micrometer or other instrument approved by the Commission which performs the same function as a micrometer, a balancing caliper, a steel set square, and a magnet.

(c)

The instruments described in §F(2)(b) of this regulation shall be kept at the pit stand and shall be at all times readily available for use by the Commission compliance representatives or other Commission employees.

(d)

The inspection required under §F(2)(a) of this regulation shall be performed on a flat surface which allows the dice inspection to be observed through the facility operator’s surveillance system and by any persons in the immediate vicinity of the pit stand.

(e)

After completion of the inspection, the dice shall be distributed as follows:

(i)

For craps and mini-craps, the floorperson who inspected the dice shall, in the presence of the other floorperson who observed the inspection, distribute the dice to the floorperson assigned at each craps table or to the floorperson assigned at each mini-craps table, and the craps floorperson or the mini-craps floorperson shall, in the presence of the dealer, place the dice in a cup on the table for use in gaming.

(ii)

For sic bo, the floorperson who inspected the dice shall, in the presence of the other floorperson who observed the inspection, place the required number of dice into the shaker and seal or lock the shaker, and the floorperson shall then secure the sic bo shaker to the table in the presence of the other floorperson who observed the inspection.

(iii)

For pai gow and pai gow poker, the floorperson who inspected the dice shall, in the presence of the other floorperson who observed the inspection, distribute the dice directly to the dealer at each pai gow table, and the dealer shall immediately place the dice in the pai gow shaker.

(f)

The pit manager or above shall place extra sets of dice for the dice reserve in the pit stand, as follows:

(i)

Dice in the pit stand shall be placed in a locked compartment, the keys to which shall be in the possession of the pit manager or above.

(ii)

Except as otherwise provided in §F(2)(e) of this regulation, dice taken from the reserve in the pit stand shall be reinspected by a floorperson or above in the presence of another floorperson or above in accordance with the inspection procedures set forth in §F(2)(b) of this regulation prior to their use for actual gaming.

(g)

Previously inspected reserve dice may be used for gaming without being reinspected if the dice are maintained in a locked compartment in the pit stand in accordance with the following procedures:

(i)

For craps and mini-craps, a set of five dice, after being inspected, shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container, to which shall be attached a label that identifies the date of inspection and contains the signatures of those responsible for the inspection shall be attached to the envelope or container.

(ii)

For sic bo, three dice, after being inspected, shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container or sealed or locked in a sic bo shaker, to which shall be attached a label or seal that identifies the date of inspection and contains the signatures of those responsible for the inspection shall, respectively, be attached to each envelope or container or placed over the area that allows access to open the sic bo shaker.

(iii)

For pai gow and pai gow poker, a set of three dice, after being inspected, shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container, to which shall be attached a label that identifies the date of inspection and contains the signatures of those responsible for the inspection shall be attached to each envelope or container.

Removal. A facility operator shall remove dice at any time of the gaming day and submit a Dice Discrepancy Report as required under §H of this regulation:

(1)

If there is any indication of tampering, flaws or other defects that might affect the integrity or fairness of the game; or

(2)

At the request of a Commission compliance representative or other Commission employee.

Inspection.

(1)

At the end of each gaming day or at other times as may be necessary, a floorperson or above, other than the individual who originally inspected the dice, shall visually inspect each die that was used for play for evidence of tampering. Evidence of tampering shall be immediately reported to a Commission compliance representative by:

(a)

Completing a two-part Dice Discrepancy Report; and

(b)

Submitting the completed Dice Discrepancy Report and the dice to a Commission compliance representative.

(2)

Dice showing evidence of tampering shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container.

(a)

A label shall be attached to each envelope or container that:

(i)

Identifies the table number, date, and time the dice were removed; and

(ii)

Contains the signatures of the person assigned to directly operate and conduct the game at that table and the floorperson assigned the responsibility for supervising the operation and conduct of the game.

(b)

A floorperson or above, or a security department employee responsible for delivering the dice to the casino compliance representatives, shall also sign the label.

(c)

The Commission compliance representative receiving the dice shall sign the original and duplicate copy of the Dice Discrepancy Report and retain the original copy.

(d)

The Commission compliance representative shall return the duplicate copy to the pit and maintain it in a secure place within the pit until it is collected by a security department employee.

(3)

Other dice that were used for play shall be put into envelopes or containers when removed from active use at the table.

(a)

A label shall be attached to each envelope or container which:

(i)

Identifies the table number, date and time the dice were removed; and

(ii)

(b)

The envelope or container shall be sealed and maintained within the pit until it is collected by a security department employee.

Reserve dice in the locked compartment in a pit stand at the end of the gaming day may be:

(1)

Collected and transported to the security department for cancellation or destruction;

(2)

Returned to the approved storage area; or

(3)

Retained in the locked compartment in the pit stand for future use.

Reserve dice in the locked compartment in a pit stand at the end of the gaming day that are to be destroyed or cancelled shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container, with a label attached to each envelope or container which:

(1)

Identifies the pit stand where the reserve dice were being stored;

(2)

Identifies the date and time the dice where placed in the envelope or container; and

(3)

Contains the signature of the pit manager or above.

At the end of each gaming day or at least once each gaming day, as designated by the facility operator and approved in advance by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16, and at other times as may be necessary:

(1)

Except as provided in §K(2) of this regulation, a security department employee shall collect and sign all envelopes or containers of used dice and reserve dice that are to be destroyed or cancelled and transport the dice to the security department for cancellation or destruction;

(2)

If an alternative procedure for collecting, destroying or cancelling dice described in §(K)(1) of this regulation has been submitted to, and approved by, the Commission, a security department employee:

(a)

Shall collect all envelopes or containers and return them to the security department; and

(b)

May sign the envelopes or containers; and

(3)

The security department employee shall also collect any duplicate copies of Dice Discrepancy Reports.

An assistant table games shift manager or above may collect all reserve dice in a locked compartment in a pit stand.

(1)

If collected:

(a)

Reserve dice shall be returned to the approved storage area; and

(b)

Reserve dice shall be collected at the end of each gaming day or at least once each gaming day, as designated by the facility operator and approved in advance by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

(2)

Except for dice maintained in a locked compartment in accordance with §F(2) of this regulation, if the reserve dice are not collected, all dice in the dice reserve shall be reinspected in accordance with one of the alternatives listed in §F of this regulation prior to their use for gaming.

Facility operators shall submit to the Commission for approval internal control procedures for:

(1)

A dice inventory system which includes, at a minimum, records of the:

(a)

Number of three and five dice sticks, and the corresponding number of single die, received from a manufacturer or supplier;

(b)

Balance of three and five dice sticks, and the corresponding number of single die, on hand;

(c)

Number of three and five dice sticks removed from storage;

(d)

Number of three and five dice sticks returned to storage;

(e)

Number of single die destroyed or canceled;

(f)

Date of each transaction; and

(g)

Signatures of the individuals involved.

(2)

A daily reconciliation of the:

(a)

Number of three or five dice sticks distributed;

(b)

Number of single die destroyed or cancelled;

(c)

Number of three or five dice sticks returned to the approved storage area; and,

(d)

Reserve three or five dice sticks in a locked compartment in a pit stand, if any; and

(3)

A physical inventory of all dice at least once every 3 months:

(a)

That shall be performed by an individual with no incompatible functions and shall be verified to the balance of dice on hand required under §M(1)(a) of this regulation; and

(b)

For which discrepancies shall immediately be reported to a Commission compliance representative.

Destruction or Cancellation of Dice.

(1)

Other than those retained for Commission or facility operator inspection, destruction or cancellation of dice shall be completed within 7 days of collection.

(2)

Cancellation shall be accomplished by drilling a circular hole of at least 1/4 inch in diameter through the center of the die.

(3)

Destruction shall be accomplished by shredding or crushing the die.

(4)

The destruction or cancellation of dice must take place in a secure location in the facility that is covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system.

Rotation and Replacement of Dice.

(1)

A set of five dice used at a craps or mini-craps table shall be changed at least once every 24 hours.

(2)

A new set of dice shall be used:

(a)

When a craps or mini-craps table is reopened for gaming;

(b)

If a die goes off the table during play and is lost;

(c)

If a die show signs of tampering or alteration; or

(d)

A die is otherwise marked, chipped, scratched, or no longer suitable for play.

(3)

Dice that have been placed in a shaker for use in gaming may not remain on a table for more than 24 hours in the games of:

(a)

Pai Gow Tiles; and

(b)

Pai Gow Poker.

Regulation .14 Sic Bo Shaker Security Procedures.Link Copy Citation

Storage.

(1)

Manual and automated sic bo shakers that have not been filled with dice may be stored in a locked compartment in a pit stand.

(2)

An automated sic bo dice shaker which has been filled with dice shall be secured to the sic bo table at all times.

Inspection.

(1)

At the end of each gaming day, a pit manager or above shall inspect all sic bo shakers that have been placed in use for gaming for evidence of tampering.

(2)

Evidence of tampering shall be immediately reported to a Commission compliance representative on a written report that includes at least:

(a)

The date and time when the tampering was discovered;

(b)

The name and signature of the individual discovering the tampering;

(c)

The table number where the sic bo shaker was used; and

(d)

The name and signature of the employee who is:

(i)

Assigned to directly operate and conduct the game at the sic bo table; and

(ii)

The supervisor assigned the responsibility for supervising the operation and conduct of the game at the sic bo table.

Regulation .15 Cards.Link Copy Citation

Except as otherwise approved by the Commission, cards used to play table games shall be in decks of 52 cards with each card identical in size and shape to every other card in the deck.

(1)

Nothing in this regulation shall be construed to prohibit a manufacturer from manufacturing decks of cards with one or more jokers in each deck.

(2)

Jokers may not be used by the facility operator in the play of any game unless authorized by the rules of the game.

Except as otherwise approved by the Commission, each deck shall be composed of cards in four suits: diamonds, spades, clubs and hearts.

(1)

Each suit shall be composed of 13 cards:

(a)

Ace;

(b)

King;

(c)

Queen;

(d)

Jack;

(e)

10;

(f)

(g)

(h)

(i)

(j)

(k)

(l)

3; and

(m)

(2)

If approved in advance by the Commission under 36.05.03.16, the face of the ace, king, queen, jack and 10 may contain an additional marking that will permit a dealer, prior to exposing the dealer’s hole card at the game of blackjack, to determine if the value of the hole card gives the dealer a blackjack.

The backs of each card in a deck shall:

(1)

Be identical and may not contain any marking, symbol or design that may enable an individual to know the identity of any element printed on the face of the card or that will in any way differentiate the back of the card from any other card in the deck;

(2)

Be designed to diminish the ability of any individual to place concealed markings thereon; and

(3)

Contain the name or logo of the facility operator using the cards, unless otherwise approved by the Commission.

Each deck of cards shall be packaged separately or in a batch containing the number of decks selected by a facility operator for use in a particular table game.

(1)

Each package of cards shall be sealed in a manner approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16 to reveal evidence of any tampering with the package.

(2)

If multiple decks of cards are packaged and sealed in a batch, the package must have a label that indicates or contain a window that reveals an adequate description of the contents of the package, including the:

(a)

Name of the facility operator for which the cards were manufactured;

(b)

Colors of the backs of the cards;

(c)

Date that the cards were manufactured;

(d)

Total number of cards in the batch; and

(e)

Total number of decks in the batch.

Individual decks of cards that are packaged and sealed in a multideck batch may not be separated from the batch for independent use at a table game.

The cards used by a facility operator for poker shall be:

(1)

Visually distinguishable from the cards used by that facility operator for other banked table game play; and

(2)

Made of plastic.

Each facility operator that offers the game of poker shall have and use on a daily basis at least four decks of cards with visually distinguishable card backings.

(1)

Card backings may be distinguished by different logos, different colors or different design patterns.

(2)

The facility operator shall submit, as part of its internal controls, the procedure for distributing and rotating the four visually distinguishable decks of cards required for use in the game of poker.

At a minimum, all poker cards that have been in play at least 4 months shall be replaced.

Cards may not be utilized in a facility unless a schematic depicting the face and backs of the cards, the colors, words, designs and graphics has been submitted to, and approved by, the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

RFID Cards. A facility operator may use RFID cards in table games if the Commission has reviewed and approved the facility operator’s plan for use of RFID cards.

A facility operator’s request for Commission approval of the use of RFID cards shall include:

(1)

A detailed description of the RFID technology and devices that will be used at the facility;

(2)

A detailed description of the RFID technology security features that will ensure the integrity of the table games where RFID cards are in use;

(3)

A detailed description of how the RFID cards and related equipment will be used in the facility; and

(4)

Any other information required by the Commission.

Regulation .16 Cards — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.Link Copy Citation

Receipt.

(1)

A shipment of decks of cards that is received from a manufacturer or supplier shall be unloaded immediately and transported to a secure area which is covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system under the supervision of at least two employees of the facility operator.

(2)

The boxes of decks of cards shall be opened and inspected to ensure that the seals on each box are intact, unbroken, and free from tampering.

(a)

Boxes that do not appear to be intact, unbroken, and free from tampering shall be immediately inspected to ensure that the decks of cards in those boxes conform to the requirements of this chapter and there is no evidence of tampering with them.

(b)

If the decks of cards inspected as required under §A(2)(a) of this regulation show no evidence of tampering, they shall be placed, along with boxes of cards that are intact, unbroken and free from tampering, for storage.

(3)

Decks of cards shall be stored in a storage area that the Commission has approved in advance under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

(4)

The functions required under §A(1) and (2) of this regulation shall be performed by the employees identified in Regulation .13A(4) of this chapter.

Storage. The Commission-approved storage area shall have two separate locks, to which access shall be controlled as follows:

(1)

The security department shall maintain one key and the gaming operations department shall maintain the other key.

(2)

An employee of the gaming operations department, below a floorperson in the organizational hierarchy, may not have access to the gaming operations department key.

(3)

If the facility operator has a separate poker storage area, an employee below a poker supervisor in the organizational hierarchy may not have access to the gaming operations department key to the poker storage area.

Distribution.

(1)

Except as provided under §E of this regulation, as may be necessary, a floorperson or above, in the presence of a security department employee, shall remove the appropriate number of decks of cards from the approved storage area.

(2)

The floorperson or above and the security department employee who removed the decks shall distribute sufficient decks to the pit managers or above and, if applicable, to the poker supervisor.

(3)

The number of decks distributed shall include extra decks that shall be placed in the pit stand for the card reserve.

(4)

Decks of cards in the pit stand shall be placed in a locked compartment, the keys to which shall be in the possession of the pit managers or above or the poker supervisor or above.

Inspection.

(1)

If the decks are to be inspected at open gaming tables under §F of this regulation, the pit manager or above shall distribute the decks to the dealer at each table or the poker supervisor shall transport the decks to the poker pit stand for subsequent distribution to the dealer at each poker table either directly by the poker supervisor or through the floorperson assigned to supervise the dealer.

(2)

If the decks are to be preinspected and preshuffled at a closed gaming table as permitted under §R of this regulation, the pit manager or above or poker supervisor shall deliver the decks to the dealer and the floorperson or above at the closed gaming table where the preinspection and preshuffling shall be performed.

(3)

If the decks have already been preinspected, preshuffled, sealed in containers and placed in the card storage area as permitted under §R(8)(b) or (e) of this regulation, the pit manager or above and a security department employee shall transport the number of sealed containers of cards needed for that gaming day to the gaming pits where the cards will be utilized and shall ensure that the containers are locked in the pit stand.

(4)

Consistent with the facility operator’s internal controls, the security department shall maintain a record of the removal of the sealed containers of cards from the approved storage area and the distribution of sealed containers to the gaming pits.

Removal.

(1)

If the decks of cards to be used for poker are removed from the poker storage area, the poker supervisor or above and a security department employee shall, at times as may be necessary, remove the appropriate number of decks from the poker storage area and distribute the decks under §D(1), (2) or (3) of this regulation.

(2)

The number of decks distributed shall include extra decks that shall be placed in the pit stand for the card reserve.

(3)

Decks of cards in the pit stand shall be placed in a locked compartment, the keys to which shall be in the possession of the poker supervisor or above.

Verification.

(1)

Except for decks of cards that are preinspected and preshuffled under §R of this regulation, the dealer shall sort the cards in each deck according to suit and in sequence to verify that all cards are present and visually inspect the backs of the cards for any defects that might compromise the integrity or fairness of the game.

(2)

The floorperson or above shall verify the inspection.

Unsuitable or Missing Card. If, while inspecting the cards in accordance with §F of this regulation, the dealer finds that a card is unsuitable for use, a card is missing from the deck or an extra card is found, the following procedures shall be observed:

(1)

A supervisor or above or a poker supervisor shall bring a replacement deck of cards or card from the card reserve in the pit stand.

(2)

The unsuitable deck or card shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container, identified by table number, date and time and signed by the dealer and floorperson assigned to that table or above.

(3)

The pit manager or above or a poker supervisor shall maintain the envelope or container in a secure place within the pit until collection by a security department employee.

Envelopes and containers used to hold or transport cards shall be:

(1)

Transparent;

(2)

Designed or constructed with seals so that any tampering is evident; and

(3)

Submitted to the Commission and approved under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

Damaged Cards.

(1)

If any card in a deck appear to be damaged during the course of play, the dealer shall immediately notify a floorperson or above.

(2)

If after inspection, the floorperson or above determines that the card is damaged and needs to be replaced, the floorperson shall notify the pit manager or above or the poker supervisor.

(3)

The pit manager or above or the poker supervisor shall:

(a)

Notify surveillance of a card change;

(b)

Bring a replacement deck of cards or card from the pit stand to replace the damaged card or cards;

(c)

Place the damaged card face up on the table and remove the matching card from the replacement deck and place it face up on the table;

(d)

Turn over both the damaged card and the replacement card to verify that the backs of the cards match;

(e)

Place the replacement card in the discard rack;

(f)

Tear the damaged card down the center, or cancel the card, and place it face up in the replacement deck; and

(g)

Return the replacement deck to the pit stand.

(4)

At least once each gaming day, the personnel operating table games shall:

(a)

Collect the replacement cards and place the replacement cards in an envelope or container;

(b)

Seal the envelope or container;

(c)

Attach a label to each envelope or container that identifies the deck as a replacement deck; and

(d)

Obtain the signature of the pit manager or above on the label.

(5)

On an as-needed basis, the personnel operating poker table games shall:

(a)

Collect the replacement decks of poker cards and place the replacement poker cards in an envelope or container;

(b)

Seal the envelope or container;

(c)

Attach a label to each envelope or container that identifies the deck as a replacement deck; and

(d)

Obtain the signature of the poker manager or above, or the poker supervisor, on the label.

(6)

The pit manager or above or the poker supervisor shall maintain the sealed envelopes or containers in a secure place within the pit until collection by a security department employee in accordance with §M of this regulation.

(7)

This subsection does not apply to cards showing indications of tampering, flaws or other defects that might affect the integrity or fairness of the game.

Removing Cards from Active Use.

(1)

Personnel operating table games shall put decks of cards that were used for play into envelopes or containers when the decks of cards are removed from active use at the table.

(2)

Personnel operating table games shall attach a label to each envelope or container which identifies the table number, date and time the decks of cards where collected and shall be signed by the dealer and floorperson assigned to the table.

(3)

The poker supervisor or pit manager or above shall maintain the sealed envelopes or containers in a secure place within the pit until collection by a security department employee.

A facility operator shall remove a deck of cards at any time if there is an indication of tampering, flaws or other defects that might affect the integrity or fairness of the game, or at the request of a Commission compliance representative or other Commission employee.

Personnel operating table games shall place extra decks or packaged sets of multiple decks in the card reserve with broken seals in a sealed envelope or container, with a label attached to each envelope or container that:

(1)

Contains the number of decks or packaged sets of multiple decks that are included;

(2)

The date and time the decks were placed in the envelope or container; and

(3)

The signature of the floorperson or above for decks used for poker and the pit manager or above for decks used for all other games.

(1)

Except as provided in §M(2) of this regulation, a security department employee shall collect and sign all envelopes or containers with damaged decks of cards, decks of cards required to be removed that gaming day, and all extra decks in the card reserve with broken seals and return the envelopes or containers to the security department;

(2)

If an alternative procedure for collecting, destroying or cancelling a deck of cards described in §M(1) of this regulation has been submitted to, and approved by, the Commission, a security department employee:

(a)

Shall collect all envelopes or containers and return them to the security department; and

(b)

May sign the envelopes or containers; and

(3)

A table game department supervisor or above may collect all extra decks with intact seals in the card reserve.

Inspection of Cards. When the envelopes or containers of used cards and reserve cards with broken seals are returned to the security department, the cards shall be inspected for tampering, marks, alterations, missing or additional cards, or anything that might indicate unfair play:

(1)

For cards used in blackjack, Spanish 21, baccarat, midibaccarat or minibaccarat, the facility operator shall inspect:

(a)

All decks used during the day; or

(b)

If Commission has approved, as part of the facility’s internal controls, the procedures for selecting the sample size and for ensuring a proper selection of the sample, a sample of decks selected at random or in accordance with an approved stratification plan.

(2)

The facility operator shall also inspect:

(a)

A deck of cards that the Commission requested the facility operator to remove for the purpose of inspection;

(b)

A deck of cards the facility operator removed for indication of tampering;

(c)

All cards used for all banked table games other than the games listed in §N(1) of this regulation; and

(d)

All cards used for poker.

(3)

The procedures for inspecting all decks required to be inspected under this subsection shall include the:

(a)

Sorting of cards sequentially by suit or utilizing a machine approved by the Commission capable of reading the cards to determine whether any deck contains missing or additional cards;

(b)

Inspection of the backs with an ultraviolet light;

(c)

Inspection of the sides of the cards for crimps, bends, cuts or shaving; and

(d)

Inspection of the front and back of all plastic cards for consistent shading and coloring.

(4)

If during the inspection procedures required for cards used in poker, one or more of the cards in a deck are determined to be unsuitable for continued use, those cards shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container and a two-part Card Discrepancy Report shall be completed in accordance with §N(8) of this regulation.

(5)

Upon completion of the inspection procedures required under §N(2) of this regulation, each deck of cards used in poker that is determined suitable for continued use shall be placed in sequential order, repackaged and returned to the approved or poker storage area for subsequent use.

(6)

The facility operator shall develop internal control procedures for returning the repackaged cards to the poker card inventory in accordance with §R of this regulation.

(7)

An individual performing an inspection shall complete a work order form which details the procedures performed and lists the tables from which the cards were removed and the results of the inspection, and shall sign the form upon completion of the inspection procedures.

(8)

The facility operator shall submit to the Commission the training procedures for the employees performing the inspections required under this subsection in its internal controls.

(9)

Evidence of tampering, marks, alterations, missing, or additional cards or anything that might indicate unfair play discovered during an inspection, or at any other time, shall be immediately reported to a Commission compliance representative by the completion and delivery of a two-part Card Discrepancy Report.

(a)

The two-part report shall include the cards or decks of cards which are the subject of the report.

(b)

The cards or decks of cards shall be retained by a Commission compliance representative for further inspection.

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission for approval internal control procedures for:

(1)

A card inventory system, which includes, at a minimum, records of the:

(a)

Balance of decks of cards on hand;

(b)

Decks of cards removed from storage;

(c)

Decks of cards returned to storage or received from a manufacturer or supplier;

(d)

Date of each transaction; and

(e)

Signatures of the employees involved;

(2)

A daily reconciliation of the decks of cards distributed, destroyed or cancelled, returned to the storage area and any the decks of cards in the card reserve; and

(3)

A physical inventory of all decks of cards at least once every 3 months;

(a)

A physical inventory shall be performed by an individual with no incompatible functions and shall be verified to the balance of decks of cards on hand required in §O(1)(a) of this regulation.

(b)

Discrepancies shall immediately be reported to a Commission compliance representative.

Destruction or Cancellation. Except for plastic cards used at poker which are of sufficient quality for reuse, decks of cards in an envelope or container that are inspected as required under §N of this regulation and found to be without any indication of tampering, marks, alterations, missing or additional cards or any indication of unfair play shall be destroyed or cancelled within 7 days of collection.

(1)

Cards submitted to the Commission shall be destroyed or cancelled within 5 days of release from the Commission.

(2)

Destruction of cards must be by shredding.

(3)

Cancellation of cards must be by drilling a circular hole of at least 1/4 inch in diameter through the center of each card in the deck.

(4)

The destruction or cancellation of cards shall take place:

(a)

[in] In a secure location in the licensed facility covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system, the physical characteristics of which shall be approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16; or

(b)

If conducted by a vendor that is registered or certified under COMAR 36.03.02.17 and done in accordance with an internal control of the licensed facility that has been approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.03.10.05, at a location other than the facility.

Reused Deck.

(1)

If a deck of plastic cards has been determined to not be suitable for reuse by the individual performing the inspection procedures required under subsection §N(3) of this regulation:

(a)

The personnel operating table games shall place the deck in a sealed envelope or container with a label attached which identifies the date and time the deck was placed in the envelope or container; and

(b)

The poker supervisor or floorperson shall sign the label.

(2)

At the end of the gaming day or at other times as may be necessary, the envelope or container shall be collected by a security department employee and returned to the security department for destruction or cancellation in accordance with §P of this regulation.

Preinspection and Preshuffling. If a facility operator elects to preinspect and preshuffle cards at a closed gaming table prior to the delivery of the cards to an open gaming table, a dealer and supervised by a floorperson or above with no concurrent supervisory responsibility for open gaming tables shall perform the procedures required under this section.

(1)

The facility operator shall provide a Commission compliance representative with a schedule of the proposed time and location for the preinspection and preshuffling at least 24 hours prior to commencement of the process.

(2)

The procedures required under §R(1)—(7) of this regulation shall be recorded by the surveillance department and the facility operator shall retain a recording for at least 7 days.

(3)

Upon receipt of the decks of cards in accordance with §E of this regulation, the dealer shall perform the procedures in §R(2)—(7) of this regulation independently for each batch of cards that will be sealed in a container in accordance with §R(7) of this regulation with the number of decks of cards in each batch being equal to the number of decks of cards required for the table game in which the decks are intended to be used.

(4)

The dealer shall visually inspect the back of each card to assure that it is not flawed, scratched, or marked in a way that might compromise the integrity or fairness of the game.

(5)

By hand or by using a machine approved by the Commission, the dealer shall inspect the front of each card to ensure that all cards are present and that there are no extra cards in the deck.

(6)

If after inspection a card is determined to be unsuitable for use, or the deck is missing a card or an extra card is found, the following procedures shall occur:

(a)

The personnel operating table games shall place the deck containing the unsuitable, missing, or extra card in an envelope or container which shall be identified by table number, date, and time the deck of cards was placed in the envelope or container and signed by the dealer and floorperson or above performing the preinspection and preshuffle; and

(b)

The floorperson or above shall maintain the sealed envelope or container containing the deck containing the unsuitable, missing, or extra card until collection by a security department employee at the conclusion of the preinspection and preshuffling procedure.

(7)

The dealer shall then shuffle the cards by hand or by using an automated card shuffling device.

(8)

Upon completion of the preinspection and preshuffling process of the cards in the batch, the dealer and floorperson or above shall complete a two-part Preshuffled/Preinspected Form or other documentation that includes the:

(a)

Time and date the Preshuffled/Preinspected Form was prepared;

(b)

Number of decks in the batch;

(c)

Table games at which the batch will be utilized if the batch contains more or less than 52 cards per deck;

(d)

Signature of the dealer who preinspected and preshuffled the cards, certifying that the cards were preinspected and preshuffled in accordance with this subsection;

(e)

Signature of the floorperson or above who witnessed and verified the preinspection and preshuffling;

(f)

Time, date and gaming table to which the sealed container of cards is subsequently delivered; and

(g)

Signature of the floorperson or above who delivered the sealed container of cards to the gaming table in accordance with §R(9) of this regulation.

(9)

The dealer shall place the preinspected and preshuffled batch of cards, together with the Preshuffled/Preinspected Form or other documentation, in a clear container that conforms to the requirements under §H of this regulation and seal the container with a prenumbered label unique to the container.

(10)

A facility operator shall include in its internal controls procedures for the maintenance and security of unused seals, and the distribution, return and reconciliation of seals used on containers holding preinspected and preshuffled cards.

(11)

The sealed containers of cards shall be transported by:

(a)

A pit manager or above or poker supervisor to the gaming pit of the gaming tables where the cards will be utilized and locked in the pit stand; or

(b)

An assistant table games shift manager or above and a security department employee to the approved storage area or poker storage area where the cards shall be placed back into the card inventory and segregated from cards that have not been preinspected and preshuffled.

(12)

A record of the transport of the sealed containers of cards to the approved storage area shall be maintained by the security department in a manner consistent with the facility operator’s approved internal controls.

(13)

When the preinspected and preshuffled cards are needed for play, each container of cards shall be delivered by a floorperson or above to an open gaming table.

(14)

Upon delivery, the floorperson or above shall unseal the container, place the decks of cards on the gaming table in front of the dealer, complete and sign the Preshuffled/Preinspected Form, drop the original Preshuffled/Preinspected Form in a locked box in the gaming pit, and forward the copy of the Preshuffled/Preinspected Form to the security department.

(15)

The dealer at the gaming table shall then cut the cards in the manner prescribed by the rules governing the particular table game.

If the Commission has approved a licensed manufacturer or contractor to provide preinspected and preshuffled decks or batches of decks, a facility operator may use preinspected and preshuffled decks or batches of decks obtained from that licensed manufacturer or contractor in the same manner as decks or batches of decks that are preinspected and preshuffled §R of this regulation.

Card Rotation. The facility operator shall change:

(1)

The decks of cards used for all banked table games except the games set forth in §T(2)—(5) of this regulation at least every:

(a)

4 hours, if the cards are dealt by hand; and

(b)

8 hours, if the cards are dealt from a manual or automated dealing shoe;

(2)

The decks of cards used in blackjack at least every:

(a)

4 hours, if the cards are dealt by hand; and

(b)

24 hours, if the cards are dealt from a manual or automated dealing shoe;

(3)

The decks of cards used in mini baccarat at least every 24 hours, if the cards are dealt from a manual or automated dealing shoe;

(4)

The decks of cards used in midi baccarat after the play of each dealing shoe; and

(5)

The two decks of cards used in poker at least every 24 hours.

Regulation .17 Dealing Shoes and Automated Card Shuffling Devices.Link Copy Citation

In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Base plate” means an interior shelf of a dealing shoe on which a card rests.

(2)

“Face plate” means the front wall of the dealing shoe against which the next card to be dealt rests and which typically contains a cutout.

A manual dealing shoe must be designed and constructed to maintain the integrity of the game at which the shoe is used, and shall include these features:

(1)

At least the first 4 inches of the base plate shall be white;

(2)

The sides of the shoe below the base plate shall:

(a)

Be transparent, have a transparent sealed cutout, or be otherwise constructed to prevent any object from being placed into or removed from the portion of the dealing shoe below the base plate; and

(b)

Permit the inspection of this portion of the shoe; and

(3)

A stop underneath the top of the face plate that precludes the next card to be dealt from being moved upwards more than 1/8 inch.

In addition to the requirements of §C of this regulation, a manual dealing shoe used in minibaccarat, midibaccarat or baccarat must also meet these specifications:

(1)

Have a removable lid that is opaque from the point where it meets the face plate to a point at least 4 inches from the face plate;

(2)

The sides and back above the base plate must be opaque; and

(3)

Have a device within the shoe which, when engaged, prevents the cards from moving backward in the shoe.

An automated card shuffling device that has been submitted, and approved by the Commission may be used in addition to a manual or automated dealing shoe.

An automated shuffling device must meet a 95 percent confidence level using a standard chi-squared test for goodness of fit.

An automated card shuffling device may not provide any information that can be used to aid a player in:

(1)

Projecting the outcome of a game;

(2)

Tracking the cards played and cards remaining to be played;

(3)

Analyzing the probability of the occurrence of an event relating to a game; or

(4)

Analyzing the strategy for playing or betting to be used in a game.

Tampering.

(1)

At the beginning of each gaming day and before a card is placed in them, the floorperson assigned to the table shall inspect the dealing shoes and automated card shuffling devices to be used for gaming to ensure that they have not been tampered with.

(2)

Evidence of tampering shall be immediately reported to a Commission compliance representative in a written report that shall include:

(a)

The date and time when the tampering was discovered;

(b)

The name and signature of the individual who discovered the tampering;

(c)

A description of the evidence of tampering;

(d)

The table number where the dealing shoe or shuffler was used; and

(e)

The name and signature of the person assigned to directly operate and conduct the game and the supervisor assigned the responsibility for supervising the operation and conduct of the game.

Regulation .18 Pai Gow Tiles.Link Copy Citation

Pai gow shall be played with a set of 32 rectangular tiles

Each tile in a set must be identical in size and shading to every other tile in the set, and shall:

(1)

Be made of a nontransparent black material, formed in the shape of a rectangle, and be not smaller than 2-1/2 inches in length, 1 inch in width and 3/8 inch in thickness;

(2)

Have the surface of each of its sides perfectly flat, except that the front side of each tile must contain spots which extend into the tile exactly the same distance as every other spot;

(3)

Have on the back or front of each tile an identifying feature unique to each facility operator;

(4)

Except for the front side containing spots, have an identical texture and finish on each side;

(5)

Have no tile within a set contain any markings, symbols or designs that would enable a player to know the identity of any element on the front side of the tile or that would distinguish any tile from any other tile within a set; and

(6)

Have identifying spots on the front side of the tiles which are red, white or both.

Unless a facility has submitted to the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16 a detailed schematic depicting the actual size and identifying features on pai gow tiles, and the Commission has approved the submission, pai gow tiles shall not be used in a facility

Each set of tiles shall be packaged separately and sealed under COMAR 36.05.03.19.

Regulation .19 Pai Gow Tiles — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.Link Copy Citation

Receipt.

(1)

A shipment of tiles that a facility operator receives from a manufacturer or contractor shall be unloaded immediately and transported to a secure area which is covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system under the supervision of at least two employees of the facility operator.

(2)

The boxes of tiles shall then be inspected by at least two employees of the facility operator to ensure that the seals on each box are intact, unbroken, and free from tampering.

(a)

Boxes that do not appear to be intact, unbroken and free from tampering shall be inspected immediately to ensure that the tiles in those boxes conform to the requirements of this chapter and there is no evidence of tampering with them.

(b)

If tiles inspected as required under §A(2)(a) of this regulation show no evidence of tampering, they shall be placed, along with boxes of tiles that are intact, unbroken and free from tampering, for storage in a storage area, the location and physical characteristics of which shall be approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

(3)

The functions required under §A(1) and (2) of this regulation shall be performed by at least the following employees of a facility operator:

(a)

A floorperson or above; and

(b)

An employee from the security department.

Sets of tiles which are to be distributed to gaming pits or tables for use in gaming shall be distributed from the approved storage area.

Approved Storage Area. The approved storage area shall have two separate locks, to which access shall be controlled as follows:

(1)

The security department shall maintain one key and the gaming operations department shall maintain the other key; and

(2)

An employee of the gaming operations department below a floorperson in the facility’s organizational hierarchy may not have access to the gaming operations department key.

Once each gaming day and at other times as may be necessary, a floorperson or above, in the presence of a security department employee, shall remove the appropriate number of sets of tiles from the approved storage area.

Envelopes and containers used to hold or transport tiles shall be:

(1)

Transparent;

(2)

Designed or constructed with seals so that any tampering is evident; and

(3)

Submitted to, and approved by, the Commission in advance under COMAR 36.05.03.16.

Distribution of Tiles.

(1)

The floorperson or above shall distribute sufficient sets of tiles to the pit manager or above in each pai gow pit.

(2)

The pit manager or above shall then distribute the sets of tiles to the dealer at each pai gow table and place extra sets of tiles in the reserve in the pit stand.

(3)

Sets of tiles in the reserve shall be placed in a locked compartment in the pit stand, keys to which shall be in the possession of the pit manager or above.

Damaged Tiles.

(1)

If during the course of play a damaged tile is detected, the dealer or a floorperson shall immediately notify the pit manager or above, who shall bring a substitute set of tiles to the table from the reserve in the pit stand to replace the entire set of tiles.

(2)

A set containing a damaged tile shall be placed in an envelope or container, identified by table number, date and time the tiles were placed in the envelope or container and sealed and signed by the dealer and the floorperson responsible for supervising the table or the pit manager or above.

(3)

The pit manager or above shall maintain the sealed envelope or container in a secure place within the pit until collection by a security department employee.

Collection.

(1)

The floorperson responsible for supervising the table or the pit manager or above shall collect used tiles which shall be placed in an envelope or container when removed from active use.

(2)

A label shall be attached to each envelope or container which identifies the table number, date and time the tiles were placed in the envelope or container and sealed and signed by the dealer and the floorperson responsible for supervising the table or the pit manager or above.

(3)

The pit manager or above shall maintain the sealed envelopes or containers in a secure place within the pit until collection by a security department employee.

Removal.

(1)

A facility operator shall remove a tile from play if there is any indication of tampering, flaws, or other defects that might affect the integrity or fairness of the game, or at the request of a Commission compliance representative or other Commission employee.

(2)

A label shall be attached to each envelope or container which identifies the table number, date, and time the tiles were placed in the envelope or container and sealed and signed by the dealer and the floorperson responsible for supervising the table or the pit manager or above.

(3)

The pit manager or above shall maintain the sealed envelopes or containers in a secure place within the pit until collection by a security department employee.

Extra sets of tiles in the reserve which have been opened shall be placed in an envelope or container with a label attached to each envelope or container which identifies the date and time the tiles were placed in the envelope or container and sealed and is signed by the pit manager or above.

At the end of each gaming day or in the alternative, at least once each gaming day, as designated by the facility operator and approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.05.03.16, and at other times as may be necessary:

(1)

A security department employee shall collect and sign all envelopes or containers with damaged tiles, tiles used during the gaming day, and all extra tiles in the reserve which have been opened, and return the envelopes or containers to the security department; and

(2)

A floorperson or above may collect all extra sets of tiles in the reserve which have not been opened, and, if collected, all unopened sets of tiles shall be cancelled, destroyed, or returned to the approved storage area.

Inspection.

(1)

When envelopes or containers of used tiles and reserve sets of tiles which have been opened are returned to the security department, the security department shall inspect the tiles for tampering, marks, alterations, missing, or additional tiles or anything that might indicate unfair play.

(2)

The procedures for inspecting sets of tiles shall include:

(a)

Sorting of tiles by pairs;

(b)

Visually inspecting the sides and back of each tile for tampering, markings, or alterations; and

(c)

Inspecting the sides and back of each tile with an ultraviolet light.

(3)

The individual performing the inspection shall complete a work order form which details the procedures performed, lists the tables from which the tiles were removed and the results of the inspection, and shall sign the form upon completion of the inspection procedures.

(4)

The facility operator shall submit to the Commission the training procedures for the employees performing the inspections required under this subsection in its internal controls.

(5)

Evidence of tampering, marks, alterations, missing, or additional tiles or anything that might indicate unfair play discovered during the inspection, or at any other time, shall be immediately reported to a Commission compliance representative by the completion and delivery of a two-part Tile Discrepancy Report.

(a)

The two-part report shall include the tiles which are the subject of the report.

(b)

A Commission compliance representative shall retain the tile for further inspection.

(c)

The Commission compliance representative receiving the tile shall sign the original and duplicate copy of the tile discrepancy report and retain the original.

(d)

The facility operator shall retain the duplicate copy.

If after completing the inspection procedures required under §N of this regulation, it is determined that a complete set of 32 tiles removed from a gaming table is free from tampering, markings, or alterations, the set shall be packaged separately and sealed before being returned to the pai gow storage area for subsequent use.

A facility operator shall develop internal control procedures for returning the repackaged tiles to the tile inventory in accordance with §P of this regulation.

Individual tiles from different sets may not be used to make a complete set for subsequent gaming.

A facility operator may create replacement and reconstructed sets in accordance with the following requirements:

(1)

If after completing the inspection procedures required under §M of this regulation, it is determined that a tile has scratches or other markings on the back, sides or edges which make the tiles unsuitable for continued use, the tile shall be removed from the set and destroyed in accordance with §R of this regulation.

(2)

The remaining usable tiles from the set shall be designated as a replacement set.

(3)

The employee who removes the tiles from a set shall complete a two-part form that shall:

(a)

Include the date and time the tiles were removed from the set;

(b)

Identify the specific tile or tiles removed from the set and sent for destruction; and

(c)

Contain the name and signature of the individuals involved.

(4)

The duplicate copy of the form shall be retained with the replacement set and the security department shall retain the original.

(5)

The assistant table games shift manager or above shall return the replacement set, accompanied by the duplicate copy of the form, to the tile inventory under §P of this regulation where replacement sets shall be inventoried and stored separately from any stored and new, used or complete reconstructed sets.

(6)

Tiles in one or more replacement sets may be used to create a complete reconstructed set of tiles in accordance with the following procedures:

(a)

The assistant table games shift manager or above shall conduct an inspection of each reconstructed set in the storage area, in the presence of a security department employee, and ensure that any replacement tile possesses the same color, texture, and finish as all other tiles in the reconstructed set.

(b)

The assistant table games shift manager or above shall sort the tiles by pairs and verify the needed replacement tile or tiles and visually inspect the sides, backs and edges of each tile in the reconstructed set for tampering, markings, and alterations and for comparison as to shading, texture and finish.

(c)

After a complete set of tiles has been assembled from replacement sets, the assistant table games shift manager or above shall attach a label to the envelope or container for the reconstructed set, which shall:

(i)

Include the date and time of reconstruction;

(ii)

Contain the signature of the assistant table games shift manager or above and the security department employee who witnessed the inspection; and

(iii)

Identify the inspection steps that were followed to determine that the reconstructed set of tiles is suitable for use in gaming.

(d)

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission for approval internal control procedures for returning the reconstructed sets into inventory, identifying all reconstructed sets and maintaining an accurate inventory balance of remaining replacement sets.

A facility operator shall submit internal control procedures for:

(1)

An inventory system which includes records of at least the following:

(a)

The balance of sets of tiles on hand;

(b)

The sets of tiles removed from storage;

(c)

The sets of tiles returned to storage or received from a manufacturer or contractor;

(d)

The date of each transaction; and

(e)

The signatures of the individuals involved;

(2)

A daily reconciliation of the:

(a)

Sets of tiles distributed;

(b)

Sets of tiles destroyed or cancelled;

(c)

Sets of tiles returned to the approved storage area; and

(d)

Sets of tiles in the tile reserve in a pit stand; and

(3)

A physical inventory of the sets of tiles at least once every 3 months.

(a)

An inventory shall be performed by an individual with no incompatible functions and shall be verified to the balance of the sets of tiles on hand required in §Q(1)(a) of this regulation.

(b)

Discrepancies shall immediately be reported to a Commission compliance representative.

Destruction or Cancellation.

(1)

Destruction or cancellation of tiles other than those retained for Commission inspection shall be completed within 7 days of collection.

(2)

The method of destruction or cancellation shall be included in the facility operator’s internal controls.

(3)

The destruction or cancellation of tiles shall take place in a secure location in the licensed facility covered by the facility operator’s surveillance system.

Tile Rotation. A facility operator shall change the tiles at least every 12 hours.

Regulation .20 Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Games — Requirements.Link Copy Citation

Wagering. A facility operator may conduct electronic wagering at a table game in accordance with this chapter.

(1)

Electronic wagering at a table game shall be conducted through the use of a dealer controlled electronic table game system.

(2)

If a dealer controlled electronic table game system is in use at a table game, a player may make only those wagers that are approved by the Commission.

The computer controlling the dealer controlled electronic table game system shall be under dual key control, with one key controlled by the accounting department and the other key controlled by the table games department or the slot operations department.

All aspects of a dealer controlled electronic table game system, including the computer and any related hardware, software or related devices, shall be tested by an independent certified testing laboratory and approved by the Commission prior to use by a facility operator.

In addition to the requirements for table games under COMAR 36.05, a facility operator using a dealer controlled electronic table game system shall include in its internal controls, at a minimum:

(1)

Procedures to ensure the physical security of the computer and related hardware, software and other devices.

(2)

Procedures to ensure the integrity and security of all sensitive data and software.

(3)

Procedures to ensure that access to sensitive data and software is limited to only appropriate personnel.

(4)

Procedures to ensure the logging of the events and the availability of records to enable an effective audit of the conduct of the system and the reporting of revenue.

A dealer controlled electronic table game shall have the ability to authenticate the transmission of data between the various components of the dealer controlled electronic table game system.

A dealer controlled electronic table game system shall:

(1)

Credit funds to the game account of a player when a player buys in to a game at a particular table game and debit any remaining funds from the game account when a player cashes out of the game;

(2)

Permit a player to:

(a)

Wager from a game account;

(b)

Collect a losing wager from a game account; and

(c)

Pay a winning wager by crediting the amount of the winnings and corresponding wager to the game account;

(3)

In the game of Poker:

(a)

Debit a game account and increment pot for a wager;

(b)

Distribute a winning pot by crediting the game account of a winning player in the appropriate amounts;

(c)

Extract the rake from a player or pot according to the rake procedures established under the standard rules for Poker, and debit the game account of a player in the correct amounts; and

(d)

Make a player’s balance or table stakes visible to all players in the game;

(4)

Depict the transactions described in §F(1), (2) and (3) of this regulation through one or more electronic fund displays that are visible to each player and to the dealer or boxperson;

(5)

Disclose to a player at all times the current balance in the player’s game account;

(6)

Accurately report and audit the table game’s win or loss, or Poker revenue, in accordance with the standard rules for Poker;

(7)

Be capable of generating reports setting forth, by gaming day, for each table game using the dealer controlled electronic table game system:

(a)

The total amount deposited into the game account of a player;

(b)

The total amount deposited into game accounts by all players;

(c)

The total amount credited to the game account of a player in payment of winnings;

(d)

The total amount credited to the game accounts of all players in payment of winnings;

(e)

The total amount collected from a player as losing wagers;

(f)

The total amount collected from all players as losing wagers;

(g)

The total amount withdrawn from game accounts by each player;

(h)

The total amount withdrawn from game accounts by all players; and

(i)

The table game win or loss; and

(j)

If applicable, for Poker:

(i)

The total amount deducted from the game account of a player for collection of Poker rake time charges under the standard rules for Poker;

(ii)

The total amount collected from the accounts of each player for collection of Poker rake time charges under the standard rules for Poker;

(iii)

The total amount collected from Poker pots for collection of Poker rake under the standard rules for Poker; and

(iv)

The table game Poker revenue.

The display of a virtual chip on a dealer controlled electronic table game that depicts the transactions described in §F(1), (2) and (3) of this regulation is not required to meet the physical requirements for chips under COMAR 36.05.02.

A dealer controlled electronic table game system shall have no more than 14 table game positions in operation for every dealer.

After installation, Agency staff shall inspect a dealer controlled electronic table game system prior to use by a facility operator.

Regulation .21 Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Game System — Procedures.Link Copy Citation

If a table game using a dealer controlled electronic table game system is equipped with a bill validator, a player may participate in wagering at the table game by:

(1)

Inserting currency or a gaming voucher into the bill validator; or

(2)

Presenting currency or value chips to the dealer or boxperson.

A dealer controlled electronic table game system that is equipped with a bill validator shall communicate with the Commission’s central monitor and control computer system to:

(1)

Transmit accounting and auditing information;

(2)

Retrieve information in real time; and

(3)

Activate or disable a dealer controlled electronic game.

If a table game using a dealer controlled electronic table game system is not equipped with a bill validator, a player shall participate in wagering by presenting currency or value chips to the dealer or boxperson.

When a player presents currency, a gaming voucher, or value chips as described in §A or C of this regulation:

(1)

The dealer controlled electronic table game system shall:

(a)

Credit to the player’s game account an amount of funds equivalent to the currency, gaming voucher or value chips presented by the player; and

(b)

Display on the electronic fund display the amount of funds deposited into the player’s game account; and

(2)

The player shall acknowledge the amount of funds deposited into the player’s game account.

A player shall cash out of a table game using a dealer controlled electronic table game system by receiving:

(1)

A gaming voucher equal in value to the balance in the player’s game account; or

(2)

Value chips from the dealer or boxperson from the table inventory container that are equal in value to the balance in the player’s game account.

After a player has cashed out of a table game using a dealer controlled electronic table game system, the dealer or boxperson shall zero out the electronic fund display of the player’s game account.

Regulation .22 Tables.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission for approval the layout for a table game that contains at least:

(1)

The name or logo of the facility operator;

(2)

Betting areas designated for the placement of wagers authorized under the standard rules; and

(3)

Inscriptions that advise a player of the payout odds or amounts for all permissible wagers offered by the facility operator, except that if payout odds or amounts are not inscribed on the layout, a sign identifying the payout odds or amounts for all permissible wagers shall be posted at each table.

If a facility operator offers a Progressive Payout Wager, a table shall have a progressive table game system for the placement of Progressive Payout Wagers that includes a:

(1)

Wagering device at each betting position that acknowledges or accepts the placement of the Progressive Payout Wager; and

(2)

Device that controls or monitors the placement of Progressive Payout Wagers at the gaming table and includes a lock-out button or other mechanism that prevents the recognition of any Progressive Payout Wager that a player attempts to place after the dealer has announced “no more bets”.

A table shall have a drop box and a tip box attached on the same side of the gaming table as, but on opposite sides of, the dealer, as approved by the Commission.

The Commission may approve an alternative location for the tip box when a card shuffling device or other table game equipment prevents the placement of the drop box and tip box on the same side of the gaming table as, but on opposite sides of, the dealer.

Each table shall have a discard rack securely attached to the top of the dealer’s side of the table except for:

(1)

Craps; and

(2)

Roulette.

Regulation .23 Roulette — Ball, Table, and Wheel Inspection; Security Procedures.Link Copy Citation

A ball used in Roulette shall be:

(1)

Made completely of a nonmetallic substance; and

(2)

Not less than 12/16 inch nor more than 14/16 inch in diameter.

Roulette shall be played on a table having a Roulette:

(1)

Wheel of at least 30 inches in diameter at one end of the table; and

(2)

Layout imprinted on the opposite end of the table.

Prior to opening a Roulette table for gaming activity, a floorperson or member of a facility operator’s security department shall:

(1)

Inspect the Roulette ball by passing it over a magnet or compass to assure its nonmagnetic quality;

(2)

Inspect the Roulette table and Roulette wheel for any magnet or contrivance that would affect the fair operation of the Roulette wheel;

(3)

Inspect the Roulette wheel to assure that the wheel is level and rotating freely and evenly; and

(4)

Inspect the Roulette wheel to assure that all parts are secure and free from movement.

If a facility operator uses a Roulette wheel that has external movable parts, any adjustments to the movable parts shall be made by a floorperson or a member of the facility operator’s gaming operations department in the presence of a security department member.

All adjustments shall be completed prior to the required inspections under §C of this regulation.

A facility operator may replace any of the movable parts at any time, except that an inspection as required under §C of this regulation shall be completed prior to reopening the Roulette wheel and table for play.

A facility operator shall maintain an inspection log, which shall include:

(1)

The date and time of inspection;

(2)

The Roulette table number;

(3)

Whether an adjustment or replacement was completed;

(4)

A description of the adjustment or replacement;

(5)

If required, a certification that an inspection was completed; and

(6)

The signature and license number of the individual making the adjustment or replacement.

When a Roulette table is not open for play, the Roulette wheel shall be secured by a cover that is placed over the entire wheel and securely locked.

Chapter 03. Table Games Procedures

Regulation .01 Personnel Operating and Conducting Table Games.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator may use the following personnel to operate table games:

(1)

Dealer;

(2)

Stickperson;

(3)

Boxperson;

(4)

Floorperson;

(5)

Pit manager;

(6)

Poker manager;

(7)

Assistant table games shift manager; and

(8)

Table games shift manager.

A facility operator shall maintain the following minimum levels of staffing when table games are being operated:

(1)

Excluding craps or baccarat, one dealer for a table game;

(2)

Two dealers for a big baccarat table;

(3)

Two dealers for a craps table, one of whom shall act as the stickperson; and

(4)

One boxperson or floorperson for a craps table.

A facility operator shall provide a sufficient number of floorpersons to supervise the operation of table games in accordance with the standards in this chapter, so that a floorperson may not supervise more than the number of tables specified in one of the following:

(1)

Excluding baccarat, midibaccarat, craps, mini-craps, and pai gow, six tables comprised of a combination of banking table games;

(2)

One baccarat table;

(3)

Three midibaccarat tables;

(4)

Excluding baccarat, caps and mini-craps, one midibaccarat table and one table of any other table game;

(5)

Three craps tables;

(6)

Excluding baccarat, midibaccarat, mini-craps and pai gow, two craps tables and two tables of a banking table game;

(7)

Excluding baccarat, midibaccarat, mini-craps and pai gow, one craps table and three tables of a banking table game;

(8)

If only one dealer is assigned to a table, two mini-craps table;

(9)

If the there is a dealer and a stickperson assigned to the tables, four mini-craps tables;

(10)

If the tables are in a side-by-side configuration, two pai gow tables;

(11)

Excluding baccarat, craps and mini-craps, one pai gow table and one table of another banking table game;

(12)

Ten poker tables; and

(13)

If the floorperson assigned to poker does not have responsibilities for seating players, 12 poker tables.

If the gaming tables being supervised by a floorperson are dealer controlled electronic table games, the maximum number of gaming tables that the floorperson may supervise may be increased by 100 percent of the limits provided in §C of this regulation.

Subject to the limitation that a pit manager or assistant table games shift manager may not directly supervise more than 12 floorpersons, a facility operator shall provide a sufficient number of pit managers or assistant table games shift managers to supervise the operation of table games.

A facility operator shall provide a poker manager to supervise all open poker tables.

If no more than three poker tables are open, a poker manager is not required.

A facility operator shall provide a table games shift manager to supervise the operation of table games during every shift.

(1)

An assistant table games shift manager may be designated to act as the table games shift manager in the table games shift manager's absence.

(2)

An assistant table games shift manager designated under §H(1) of this regulation may not be counted toward the number of pit managers or assistant table games shift managers required under §E of this regulation.

A facility operator may request the Commission to approve its use of a staffing plan that differs from the minimum standards in this section by submitting a written alternate minimum staffing plan which must include at least:

(1)

The pit number and configuration of any pit affected;

(2)

The type, location and table number of any table affected;

(3)

The standard staffing level required under this regulation for a gaming table and the proposed alternative staffing;

(4)

The days, shifts or times during which the alternative staffing would be in effect; and

(5)

A narrative explaining the rationale for the proposed alternative staffing and how the alternative staffing would protect the integrity of gaming at the affected gaming tables.

A facility operator may not implement an alternate minimum staffing plan unless the Commission has approved the plan in writing.

Nothing in this regulation shall be construed to limit:

(1)

A facility operator from using more personnel than required by this regulation; or

(2)

The Commission’s discretion to direct a facility to use more personnel than required by this regulation in the operation of table games.

Regulation .02 Table Inventory.Link Copy Citation

When a table game is opened for gaming, table game operations shall commence with the table inventory.

A facility operator may not cause or permit gaming chips, coins, or plaques to be added to, or removed from, a table inventory during the gaming day except:

(1)

In exchange for cash;

(2)

In exchange for an issuance copy of a counter check presented by a player;

(3)

For the payment of winning wagers and collection of losing wagers made at the gaming table;

(4)

In exchange for a gaming chip or plaque received from a player having an equal aggregate face value;

(5)

In conformity with fill and credit procedures; and

(6)

For the collection of vigorish.

When a table game is not open for gaming activity, the table inventory and a Table Inventory Slip shall:

(1)

Be stored in a locked container that is clearly marked on the outside with the game and the gaming table number to which it corresponds;

(2)

Have the information on the Table Inventory Slip be visible from the outside of the container; and

(3)

Be stored either in the cage or secured to the gaming table, in a manner consistent with the facility’s approved internal controls.

Notwithstanding the requirements in §C of this regulation, for table games that are not open for gaming activity during the gaming day, a facility operator may use this alternative procedure:

(1)

A floorperson or above shall complete a Closed Table form for every table that was not open for gaming during the gaming day;

(2)

The table inventory shall remain locked during completion of the Closed Table form;

(3)

The Closed Table form shall contain:

(a)

The date and identification of the shift ended;

(b)

The game and table number;

(c)

The date the table was last opened for gaming; and

(d)

The signature and license number of the floorperson or above who completed the Closed Table form; and

(4)

After completion of the procedure, the floorperson or above who completed the Closed Table form shall deposit the form into the drop box.

The keys to the locked containers containing the table inventories shall be maintained and controlled by the gaming operations department and may not be made accessible to cage personnel or to any employee responsible for transporting the table inventories to or from the gaming tables.

Table Inventory Slips shall be two-part forms upon which the following is recorded:

(1)

The date and identification of the shift ended;

(2)

The game and table number;

(3)

The total value of each denomination of value chips, coins and plaques remaining at the gaming table;

(4)

The total value of all denominations of value chips, coins and plaques remaining at the gaming table; and

(5)

The signatures of the dealer, or boxperson and floorperson, assigned to the gaming table who conducted the count of the table inventory when the gaming table was closed and when the gaming table was opened.

Regulation .03 Procedures for Opening a Table Game.Link Copy Citation

When a table game is to be opened for gaming activity, a security department employee shall transport directly from the cage to the gaming table the locked container with the table inventory and the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip if the Slip is not already attached to the gaming table.

Immediately prior to opening the table game for gaming, the floorperson assigned to the gaming table shall unlock the container with the table inventory after assuring that it is the proper container for that gaming table.

The dealer or boxperson assigned to the gaming table shall count the contents of the table inventory in the presence of the floorperson assigned to the gaming table and reconcile the count to the totals on the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip removed from the container.

The dealer or boxperson assigned to the table, and the floorperson who observed the dealer or boxperson count the contents of the container, shall attest to the accuracy of the information recorded on the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip by signing the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip.

After the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip has been signed as required under §D of this regulation, the dealer, boxperson or floorperson shall immediately deposit the slip into the table game drop box attached to the gaming table.

If there is a discrepancy between the amount of gaming chips and plaques counted and the amount of the gaming chips and plaques recorded on the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip:

(1)

The discrepancy shall be immediately verbally reported to the floorperson or above, the security department and a Commission compliance representative;

(2)

In the presence of the floorperson or above, the dealer or boxperson assigned to the table shall recount the table inventory and complete a new Table Inventory Slip reflecting the results of the dealer’s or boxperson’s recount of the table inventory;

(3)

The floorperson or above shall:

(a)

Prepare an Error Notification Slip, which shall be a three-part form containing:

(i)

The date and time;

(ii)

The type of game;

(iii)

The table number and pit; and

(iv)

An explanation of the discrepancy;

(b)

Write “Incorrect Copy” on the copy of the Table Inventory Slip that was in the table inventory;

(c)

Sign the “Incorrect Copy”; and

(d)

Write “Correct Copy” on both copies of the Table Inventory Slip required to be prepared by the dealer or boxperson under §F(2) of this regulation.

(4)

The “Correct Copy” shall be signed by the dealer or boxperson who recounted the table inventory, and the floorperson or above.

(5)

After the signatures required under §F(4) of this regulation have been obtained, the dealer or boxperson shall deposit in the drop box the “Incorrect Copy” Table Inventory Slip, both copies of the “Correct Copy” Table Inventory Slip and the first copy of the Error Notification Slip.

A dealer or boxperson shall give the second copy of the Error Notification Slip to the pit clerk or floorperson or above, and shall deliver the third copy of the Error Notification Slip to a Commission compliance representative.

For any unresolved discrepancy greater than $100, the security or surveillance department shall investigate the discrepancy and, within 24 hours, complete a written incident report and immediately forward a copy to a Commission compliance representative.

Regulation .04 Procedure for Distributing Chips, Coins, and Plaques to a Gaming Table.Link Copy Citation

A pit clerk or floorperson or above shall prepare a request for a fill to add value chips, coins, and plaques to a table game using a Fill Request Slip.

Access to the blank Fill Request Slips shall be restricted to pit clerks and floorpersons or above.

A Fill Request Slip shall be a two-part form on which the following information shall be recorded:

(1)

The date and time of preparation;

(2)

The denomination of value chips, coins and plaques to be distributed to the gaming table;

(3)

The total amount of each denomination of value chips, coins and plaques to be distributed to the gaming table;

(4)

The game and table number to which the value chips, coins and plaques are to be distributed; and

(5)

The signature of the floorperson or above requesting the fill.

After the Fill Request Slip has been prepared, the security department employee shall transport the chip bank copy of the Fill Request Slip directly to the chip bank.

The dealer or boxperson shall place the drop box copy of the Fill Request Slip in view of the facility operator’s surveillance system on the gaming table to which the value chips, coins, and plaques are to be received.

Notwithstanding the requirements of §§A—E of this regulation, a fill request may be prepared electronically if:

(1)

The input data for preparation of the fill is entered by, and ability to input data is restricted to, the pit clerk or a floorperson or above; and

(2)

A Fill Slip is generated in the chip bank as a direct result of the input.

A Fill Slip shall be prepared by a chip bank cashier or, if the required information was inputted in conformity with §F of this regulation, the Fill Slip may be electronically generated in the chip bank.

A Fill Slip shall be:

(1)

A serially prenumbered form;

(2)

Used in sequential order;

(3)

Accounted for by employees with no incompatible functions; and

(4)

If applicable, marked “Void” and signed by the preparer.

If a Fill Slip is manually prepared, the following procedures and requirements shall be observed:

(1)

Each series of Fill Slips shall be a four-part form and shall be inserted in a locked dispenser or bound in a Fill Slip form book that permits an individual Fill Slip in the series and its copies to be written upon while still locked in the dispenser or bound in the Fill Slip form book;

(2)

The Fill Slip dispenser shall discharge the drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Fill Slip while the accounting copy remains in a continuous, unbroken form in the dispenser; or

(3)

If a Fill Slip form book is utilized, the accounting copy must remain in the bound Fill Slip form book until removed in accordance with §I(4) of this regulation; and

(4)

Access to copies of the Fill Slips shall be maintained and controlled by accounting department employees with no incompatible functions who are responsible for controlling and accounting for the unused supply of Fill Slips, placing Fill Slips in the dispensers and removing the accounting copies of the Fill Slips from the dispensers or Fill Slip form book each gaming day.

If a Fill Slip is electronically prepared, each series of Fill Slips must be a three-part form and:

(1)

Be inserted in a printer that will simultaneously print a drop box, acknowledgment and chip bank copy of the Fill Slip in the chip bank; and

(2)

Store, in machine readable form, the information printed on the drop box, acknowledgement, and chip bank copies of the Fill Slips so that the stored data may not be susceptible to change or removal by any personnel involved in the preparation of a Fill Slip after the Fill Slip has been prepared.

A copy of a Fill Slip and, if applicable, the stored data, must contain at least the:

(1)

Denominations of the value chips, coins, and plaques being distributed;

(2)

Total amount of each denomination of value chips, coins, and plaques being distributed;

(3)

Total amount of all denominations of value chips, coins, and plaques being distributed;

(4)

Game and table number to which the value chips, coins, and plaques are being distributed;

(5)

Date and shift during which the distribution of value chips, coins, and plaques occurs; and

(6)

Signature of the preparer or, if electronically prepared, the license number of the preparer.

The time of preparation of the Fill Slip shall be recorded on the drop box, acknowledgement, and chip bank copies of the Fill Slip upon preparation.

A security department employee shall directly transport a value chip, coin or plaque distributed to a gaming table from the chip bank to a gaming table.

Upon receipt of a value chip, coin or plaque at a gaming table, the floorperson shall:

(1)

Compare the Fill Request Slip to the Fill Slip; and

(2)

Attest to the accuracy of the fill by signing the drop box copy and acknowledgement copy of the Fill Slip.

If a fill request is generated electronically in the chip bank in accordance with §F of this regulation, the floorperson shall:

(1)

Compare the Fill Slip with the electronically generated fill request; and

(2)

Attest to the accuracy of the fill by signing the drop box and acknowledgement copies of the Fill Slip.

Signatures on the drop box and acknowledgement copies of the Fill Slip attesting to the accuracy of the information contained on a Fill Slip shall be required of the specified employees at the specified times:

(1)

The chip bank cashier, upon preparation;

(2)

The security department employee transporting the value chips, coins and plaques to the gaming table, upon receipt from the cashier of the value chips, coins and plaques to be transported;

(3)

The dealer or boxperson assigned to the gaming table, upon receipt and verification of the amounts of the value chips, coins and plaques at the gaming table from the security department employee; and

(4)

The floorperson assigned to the gaming table, upon receipt and verification of the amounts of the value chips, coins and plaques at the gaming table.

After the signature requirements in §P of this regulation have been satisfied, the security department employee who transported to a gaming table a value chip, coin or plaque, the drop box, and acknowledgement copies of the Fill Slip, shall:

(1)

Observe the dealer’s or boxperson’s immediate placement of the drop box copy of the Fill Slip and the drop box copy of the Fill Request Slip, if applicable, in the drop box attached to the gaming table to which a value chip, coin, or plaque was transported; and

(2)

Return the acknowledgement copy of the Fill Slip to the chip bank cashier.

The chip bank cashier shall maintain together the chip bank copies of the Fill Request Slip, if applicable, and the chip bank and acknowledgement copies of the Fill Slip, until those items are forwarded to the accounting department.

All parts of voided Fill Slips, as well as the chip bank copies of Fill Request Slips, if applicable, and the acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Fill Slips that are maintained and controlled in conformity with §Q of this regulation, shall be forwarded to the accounting department for agreement, on a daily basis, with:

(1)

The drop box copies of the Fill Request Slips, if applicable, and Fill Slips removed from the drop box on the gaming table; and

(2)

If applicable, the electronically stored data and accounting copies of the Fill Slips.

Regulation .05 Removing a Value Chip, Coin, or Plaque from a Gaming Table.Link Copy Citation

A pit clerk or floorperson or above shall prepare a request for a credit to remove a value chip, coin or plaque from a table game by using a Credit Request Slip.

Access to the blank Credit Request Slips shall be restricted to pit clerks and floorpersons or above.

A Credit Request Slip shall be a two-part form on which the following information shall be recorded:

(1)

The date and time of preparation;

(2)

The denomination of chips, coins, and plaques to be removed from the gaming table;

(3)

The total amount of each denomination of value chips, coins and plaques to be removed from the gaming table;

(4)

The game and table number from which the value chips, coins, and plaques are to be removed; and

(5)

The signature of the floorperson or above assigned to the gaming table from which the value chips, coins and plaques are to be removed.

A security department employee shall transport the chip bank copy of a prepared Credit Request Slip directly to the chip bank.

A dealer or boxperson shall place the drop box copy of the Credit Request Slip in view of the facility operator’s surveillance system on the gaming table from which the value chips, coins and plaques are to be removed.

The drop box copy of the Credit Request Slip may not be removed until the drop box and acknowledgement copies of the Credit Slip are received from the chip bank.

Notwithstanding the requirements of §§A—F of this regulation, a request for a credit may be prepared electronically if:

(1)

The input data for preparation of the credit is entered by, and ability to input data is restricted to, the pit clerk or a floorperson or above; and

(2)

A Credit Slip is generated in the chip bank as a direct result of the input.

A Credit Slip shall be prepared by a chip bank cashier or, if the required information was inputted in conformity with §G of this regulation, the Credit Slip may be electronically generated in the chip bank.

Credit Slips shall be:

(1)

Serially prenumbered forms;

(2)

Used in sequential order;

(3)

Accounted for by employees with no incompatible functions; and

(4)

If applicable, marked “Void” and signed by the preparer.

When Credit Slips are manually prepared, the following procedures and requirements shall be observed:

(1)

Each series of Credit Slips shall be a four-part form and shall be inserted in a locked dispenser or bound in a Credit Slip form book that permits an individual Credit Slip in the series and its copies to be written upon while still locked in the dispenser or bound in the Credit Slip form book;

(2)

The Credit Slip dispenser must discharge the drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip while the accounting copy remains in a continuous, unbroken form in the dispenser; or

(3)

If a Credit Slip form book is utilized, the accounting copy must remain in the bound Credit Slip form book until removed in accordance with §J(4) of this regulation; and

(4)

Access to the copies of the Credit Slips shall be maintained and controlled by accounting department employees with no incompatible functions who shall be responsible for controlling and accounting for the unused supply of the Credit Slips, placing Credit Slips in the dispensers, and removing the accounting copies of the Credit Slips from the dispensers or Credit Slip form book each gaming day.

When Credit Slips are electronically prepared, each series of Credit Slips must be a three-part form and:

(1)

Be inserted in a printer that simultaneously prints drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip in the chip bank;

(2)

Store, in machine-readable form, the information printed on the drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip; and

(3)

The stored data may not be susceptible to change or removal by any personnel after the preparation of a Credit Slip after the Credit Slip has been prepared.

Copies of the Credit Slip, and when applicable, the stored data, must contain at least the following information:

(1)

The denominations of the value chips, coins, and plaques being returned to the chip bank;

(2)

The total amount of each denomination of value chips, coins and plaques being returned;

(3)

The total amount of all denominations of value chips, coins, and plaques being returned;

(4)

The game and table number from which the value chips, coins, and plaques are being returned;

(5)

The date and shift during which the removal of value chips, coins, and plaques occurs; and

(6)

The signature of the preparer or, if electronically prepared, the identification code of the preparer.

When the Credit Slip is prepare, the time of its preparation shall be recorded on the drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip.

After the Credit Slip has been prepared by the chip bank cashier or has been printed in the chip bank as a result of the information being inputted electronically by a pit clerk or floorperson or above, the security department employee shall transport the drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip directly to the gaming table.

The dealer or boxperson shall compare the value chips, coins and plaques to be removed from the table inventory container with the drop box copy of the Credit Slip and the Credit Request Slip, if applicable, and shall sign the Credit Slip.

Signatures on the drop box, acknowledgement and chip bank copies of a Credit Slip attesting to the accuracy of the information contained on the Credit Slip shall be required of the specified employees at the specified times:

(1)

The chip bank cashier, upon receipt of the value chips from the table;

(2)

The dealer or boxperson assigned to the gaming table, upon removal of the value chips, coins and plaques from the table inventory container and verification of the Credit Slip and Credit Request Slip, if applicable;

(3)

The floorperson assigned to the gaming table, upon observing the removal of the value chips, coins and plaques from the table inventory container and the verification of the Credit Slip and Credit Request Slip, if applicable; and

(4)

The security department employee, upon receipt of the value chips, coins and plaques from the gaming table.

After meeting the signature requirements required under §P of this regulation:

(1)

The security department employee shall transport the value chips, coins and plaques directly to the chip bank along with the acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip;

(2)

The dealer or boxperson shall place the drop box copy of the Credit Slip on the gaming table in view of the facility’s surveillance system;

(3)

Upon receipt of the value chips, coins and plaques from the security department employee, the chip bank cashier shall:

(a)

Compare the chip bank copy of the Credit Request Slip with the Credit Slip; or

(b)

If the credit request is electronically generated in accordance with §G of this regulation, the chip bank cashier shall compare the Credit Slip with the electronically generated credit request; and

(c)

The chip bank cashier shall attest to the accuracy of the credit by signing the acknowledgement and chip bank copies of the Credit Slip.

(4)

After transporting the acknowledgement copy of the Credit Slip back to the gaming table from which the value chips, coins and plaques were removed, the security department employee shall observe the immediate placement by the dealer or boxperson of the drop box copy of the Credit Request Slip, if applicable, and the drop box and acknowledgement copies of the Credit Slip into the drop box.

(5)

The chip bank copies of the Credit Request Slip, if applicable, and Credit Slip shall be maintained together by the chip bank cashier until forwarded to the accounting department.

All parts of voided Credit Slips, chip bank copies of Credit Request Slips, if applicable, and the chip bank copies of the Credit Slips that are maintained and controlled in conformity with §Q of this regulation, shall be forwarded by a chip bank cashier to the accounting department for agreement, on a daily basis, with:

(1)

The drop box copies of the Credit Request Slips, if applicable, and the drop box and acknowledgement copies of the Credit Slips removed from the drop box on the gaming table; and

(2)

The electronically stored data and accounting copies of Credit Slips, if applicable.

Regulation .06 Accepting Cash for Gaming Chips, Plaques, or Electronic Wagering Credits.Link Copy Citation

When a player presents cash at a table game for exchange for gaming chips, plaques or electronic wagering credits:

The dealer or boxperson shall spread the cash on the top of the gaming table in full view of the player who presented it, the floorperson assigned to the gaming table and the facility operator's surveillance system.

The amount of cash shall be verbalized by the dealer or boxperson accepting it in a tone of voice to be heard by the player who presented it and the floorperson assigned to the gaming table.

Immediately after an equivalent amount of gaming chips, plaques or electronic wagering credits has been given to the player by the dealer or boxperson, the dealer or boxperson shall take the cash from the top of the gaming table and place it into the drop box attached to the gaming table.

Regulation .07 Drop at an Open Table Game.Link Copy Citation

When a table game being dropped is to remain open for gaming activity, the dealer or boxperson assigned to the gaming table shall count the value chips, coins, and plaques remaining in the table inventory at the time of the drop and record the amount on a Table Inventory Slip.

The floorperson who is responsible for supervising the table game at the time of the drop shall observe the count required under §A of this regulation.

The dealer or boxperson assigned to the table, and the floorperson who observed the dealer or boxperson count the contents of the table inventory, shall attest to the accuracy of the information recorded on the Table Inventory Slip by signing the Table Inventory Slip.

After the Table Inventory Slip is signed as required under §C of this regulation:

(1)

The dealer or boxperson shall deposit the original copy of the Table Inventory Slip in the drop box that is attached to the gaming table immediately before the drop box is removed from the gaming table as part of the drop; and

(2)

The dealer or boxperson shall deposit the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip in the drop box that is attached to the gaming table immediately after the removal of the drop box that is removed from the gaming table as part of the drop.

Regulation .08 Procedure for Closing a Table Game.Link Copy Citation

When gaming activity at a table game is concluded, the dealer or boxperson assigned to the gaming table, in the presence of the floorperson assigned to the gaming table, shall count the value chips, coins, and plaques remaining at the gaming table.

The floorperson assigned to the gaming table shall record the amounts of the value chips, coins and plaques counted on the Table Inventory Slip, and the original copy of the Table Inventory Slip shall be signed by the dealer or boxperson who counted the table inventory and by the floorperson who observed the dealer or boxperson count the contents of the table inventory.

After the original copy of the Table Inventory Slip has been signed as required under §B of this regulation, the dealer or boxperson shall immediately deposit the original copy of the Table Inventory Slip in the table game drop box attached to the gaming table.

After the original copy of the Table Inventory Slip has been deposited in the table game drop box attached to the gaming table, the dealer or boxperson shall place the duplicate copy of the Table Inventory Slip and the value chips, coins and plaques remaining at the gaming table in the container required under Regulation .02 of this chapter, after which the floorperson shall lock the table inventory container and cause it to be transported directly to the cage by a security department member or secured to the gaming table.

If the locked table inventory containers are transported to the cage, a cage supervisor shall determine that all locked containers have been returned.

If the locked table inventory containers are secured to the gaming table, a pit manager or above shall verify that all the containers are locked.

Regulation .09 Table Inventory for a Poker Table.Link Copy Citation

Notwithstanding the requirements in Regulations .02, .03, .06, and .07 of this chapter, a facility operator may establish procedures for the issuance of table inventories that are maintained by poker dealers on an impress basis.

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission the procedures developed under §A of this regulation as part of the facility operator's internal controls.

Regulation .10 Table Inventory Counts.Link Copy Citation

In addition to the requirements in Regulations .03, .07, and .08 of this chapter for opening a table game, conducting a drop during an open game, and closing a table game, a facility operator may establish procedures for the use of a three-compartment drop box.

The use of a three-compartment drop box requires the preparation of a Table Inventory Slip for each shift that the table was open at least once each gaming day.

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission the procedures developed under §A of this regulation as part of the facility operator's internal controls.

Regulation .11 Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator may use Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.

A coupon may not be issued by a facility operator or used in a facility until:

(1)

The design specifications of the proposed coupon are submitted to and approved by the Commission; and

(2)

A system of internal procedures and administrative and accounting controls governing the inventory, distribution and redemption of the coupon is submitted to and approved by the Commission as part of the facility operator’s internal controls.

A coupon issued by a facility operator shall contain at least:

(1)

The name or logo of the facility operator;

(2)

The value of the coupon, which can be identified when viewing the coupon through the facility operator’s surveillance system;

(3)

A sequential serial number;

(4)

Any restrictions regarding redemption, including the type of game or wager on which the coupon may be used; and

(5)

The expiration date of the coupon.

Match Play Coupons shall contain an area designated for the placement thereon of the required gaming chips that does not obscure the visibility of the denomination of the coupon.

Administration of Coupon Program.

(1)

The accounting department and the marketing department, or other department as specified in the facility operator’s internal controls, shall be responsible for administering the coupon program.

(2)

The marketing department shall be responsible for distributing the coupon to a player.

(3)

The accounting department shall be responsible for maintaining the coupon ledger and administering the coupon accounting procedures set forth in §N of this regulation.

A shipment of coupons received from a manufacturer or contractor, or those coupons produced by the facility operator, in accordance with §Q of this regulation shall be opened and examined by at least one member of the accounting department and one member of the marketing department, who shall report any deviation between the invoice accompanying the coupon and the actual coupon received to a supervisor from the accounting department.

After checking a coupon received from a manufacturer or contractor, or produced by the facility operator, an accounting department supervisor shall record the following information in the coupon ledger:

(1)

The date a coupon was received;

(2)

The quantity and denomination of coupons received;

(3)

The beginning and ending serial number of the coupons received; and

(4)

The name, signature and license number of the individuals who checked the coupons.

A marketing department supervisor shall estimate the number of coupons needed for each gaming day or promotion and complete a requisition document which contains the following information:

(1)

The date the requisition was prepared;

(2)

The date for which the coupons are needed;

(3)

The denomination and quantity of coupons requested;

(4)

The name, signature, and license number of the marketing department supervisor completing the requisition; and

(5)

The name, signature and license number of the accounting department supervisor authorizing the requisition.

Upon receipt of the requisition document, the accounting department supervisor shall record in the coupon ledger the following information before issuing the coupons to the marketing department supervisor:

(1)

The beginning and ending serial number of the coupons to be issued;

(2)

The denomination and quantity of coupons to be issued;

(3)

The name, signature and license number of the accounting department supervisor who will be issuing the coupons; and

(4)

A record and explanation of coupons that were voided.

A coupon that is not issued to the marketing department shall be controlled by an accounting department supervisor or above and stored in a secured and locked area approved by the Commission, as designated in the facility operator’s internal controls the location of the approved storage area.

The marketing department shall maintain a daily Coupon Reconciliation Form which shall contain:

(1)

The date;

(2)

The beginning and ending serial numbers of the coupons received from the accounting department;

(3)

The denomination and quantity of coupons the marketing department has to distribute to players;

(4)

The denomination and quantity of coupons the marketing department distributed to players;

(5)

The denomination, quantity, and serial numbers of coupons remaining;

(6)

The serial numbers of coupons that were voided and the reason the coupons were voided;

(7)

Any discrepancy discovered in the accounting for coupons and an explanation of the discrepancy; and

(8)

The name, signature and license number of the marketing department supervisor completing the form.

Undistributed Coupons.

(1)

At the end of the gaming day or promotional period, a copy of the Coupon Reconciliation Form and all coupons that were not distributed to players shall be returned to the accounting department.

(2)

The marketing department may keep for use during the next gaming day all coupons that were not distributed to players if the coupons are:

(a)

Stored in a secured and locked area approved in advance by the Commission; and

(b)

Recorded on the daily Coupon Reconciliation Form for the next gaming day.

(3)

All expired coupons shall be returned to the accounting department on a daily basis.

(4)

When unused and expired coupons are returned to the accounting department, an accounting department supervisor shall record the following information in the coupon ledger:

(a)

The date the coupons were returned;

(b)

The beginning and ending serial numbers of the coupons returned;

(c)

The denomination and quantity of coupons returned;

(d)

The serial numbers of any coupons that were voided and the reason the coupons were voided;

(e)

The name, signature, and license number of the marketing department supervisor returning the unused coupons; and

(f)

The name, signature, and license number of the accounting department supervisor who received the unused coupons.

All documentation, voided coupons, redeemed coupons, and coupons that were not distributed to players shall be forwarded daily to the accounting department where the coupons shall be:

(1)

Counted and examined for proper calculation and recording;

(2)

Reviewed for the propriety of signatures on the documentation and cancelled;

(3)

Reconciled by total number of coupons given to the marketing department for distribution to players, returned for reissuance, voided, distributed to players and redeemed; and

(4)

Recorded, maintained, and controlled by the accounting department.

At least once every month, a facility operator shall inventory all coupons that are not distributed to players and record the result of the inventory in the coupon ledger in accordance with the inventory procedures that the Commission approved as part of the facility operator’s internal controls.

A facility operator shall prepare and submit to the Commission a quarterly report that lists the total value of the coupons redeemed by players.

If a facility operator’s Commission-approved internal controls include its production and subsequent reconciliation of coupons, a facility operator may internally manufacture or print coupons.

Production of Coupons. If a facility operator’s Commission-approved internal controls include the production of coupons by a manufacturer or contractor, a facility operator may authorize a manufacturer or contractor to print and mail coupons directly to players in accordance with the following requirements:

(1)

The coupons shall comply with the requirements in §§B and C of this regulation;

(2)

The facility operator shall supply the manufacturer or contractor, through electronic means, a list of the following information for each player to whom the coupon shall be mailed:

(a)

The player’s name and address;

(b)

The denomination of the coupon;

(c)

The expiration date of the coupon; and

(d)

A serial number on each coupon;

(3)

The coupon issued shall include a magnetic strip or bar code that will enable the facility operator’s computer system to identify the information required under §R(2) of this regulation;

(4)

The information in §R(2) of this regulation shall be provided to the accounting department, which shall maintain the information for purposes of reconciliation as required under §N of this regulation;

(5)

Prior to redemption of the coupon, a dealer shall verify the expiration date and confirm that the coupon has not expired;

(6)

All coupons issued shall be electronically canceled in the facility operator’s computer system immediately upon redemption or during the counting of the table game drop boxes; and

(7)

The facility operator shall ensure that the manufacturer or contractor does not engage in a predatory marketing practice in violation of COMAR 36.03.03.08.

A facility operator may use a computerized system that complies with the requirements in this regulation if:

(1)

The computerized system creates coupons that comply with the requirements in §§B and C of this regulation;

(2)

The computerized system provides an audit trail and allows for the segregation of duties to satisfy the requirements in this section; and

(3)

The facility operator includes in its internal controls procedures governing the production, recording, redemption, and reconciliation of computer-generated coupons.

Regulation .12 Use of Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.Link Copy Citation

A coupon may be redeemed only at a gaming table in which a player wagers against the house.

Redemption. The dealer shall:

(1)

Verify the coupon is valid prior to accepting it as a wager;

(2)

Ensure that a coupon is placed on an authorized wager so that the value of the coupon is visible at all times; and

(3)

Settle winning wagers in accordance with the terms and conditions of the coupon.

Whether the wager wins or loses, the dealer shall deposit the coupon into the drop box attached to the gaming table at the time the winning wager is paid or the losing wager is collected.

The coupon shall remain in the event of a push.

Regulation .13 Electronic, Electrical, and Mechanical Devices Prohibited.Link Copy Citation

A player, or an individual acting in concert with a player, may not use, or possess with the intent to use, at a table game a calculator, computer or other electronic, electrical, or mechanical device to assist in:

(1)

Projecting an outcome at any table game;

(2)

Tracking or analyzing cards that have been dealt;

(3)

Tracking the changing probabilities of a table game; or

(4)

Developing or tracking a playing strategy to be used by a player.

A violation of §A of this regulation may be the basis for immediate ejection from the facility, placement on the Commission’s mandatory exclusion list under COMAR 36.03.07, or other civil or criminal penalty.

Regulation .14 Minimum and Maximum Wagers; Payout Odds.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall establish minimum and maximum wagers for any authorized table game in a facility.

In accordance with Regulation .23 of this chapter, a facility operator shall provide notice of the minimum and maximum wagers in effect at each gaming table.

A wager accepted by a dealer that exceeds the current table maximum, or is lower than the current table minimum, shall be paid or lost in its entirety in accordance with the rules of the game.

If a facility operator includes a wagering requirement in its rules of the game under Regulation .21 of this chapter nothing in this regulation shall preclude a facility operator from establishing additional wagering requirements that are consistent with the rules of the game, including a requirement that wagers be made in specified increments.

Unless otherwise specified in a Commission-approved paytable, the payout odds for wagers printed on a layout, signage, brochure or other publication distributed by the facility operator shall be stated through the use of the word “to” and may not be stated through use of the word “for”.

Regulation .15 Table Game Taxes and Gross Table Game Revenue.Link Copy Citation

The tax on table game revenue shall be payable to the Commission within 2 business days, with the exception of Maryland State holidays, and must be based upon the gross table game revenue derived during a gaming day reported in the manner prescribed by the Commission.

Gross table game revenue includes the following:

(1)

The net revenue from all banking table games;

(2)

The net revenue from nonbanking table games; and

(3)

The net revenue from contests or tournaments.

Net revenue from banking table games must be the sum of the net revenue determined for each banking table game individually.

The net revenue for an individual banking table game must be equal to the total of §D(1)—(3) of this regulation, minus the total of §D(4)—(6) of this regulation:

(1)

The ending inventory of value chips, coins and plaques at the gaming table as reported on the Table Inventory Slip for a table game that remained open for gaming activity when the table was being dropped at the end of the gaming day or the Table Inventory Slip for a table game that was closed prior to the end of the gaming day;

(2)

The sum of all Credit Slips for the gaming table for that gaming day;

(3)

The total of the currency, promotional instruments, and counter checks collected from the drop box for that gaming table;

(4)

The inventory of value chips, coins, and plaques at the gaming table as reported on the Table Inventory Slip for a table game that remained open for gaming activity when the table was being dropped at the end of the previous gaming day or the Table Inventory Slip for a table game that was opened during the gaming day;

(5)

The sum of all Fill Slips and payments for counter checks and markers made at the table for the gaming table for that gaming day; and

(6)

The sum of all promotional instruments that are allowed to be excluded from taxable proceeds under COMAR 36.03.10.36.

Net revenue from a nonbanking table game shall be the sum of the net revenue determined for each nonbanking table game individually, and the net revenue for an individual nonbanking table game shall be equal to the poker rake.

Net revenue from an electronic wagering system shall be determined through the Commission’s central monitor and control system.

Net revenue from any contest or tournament shall be the sum of the net revenue determined for each contest or tournament individually.

The net revenue for an individual contest or tournament must be equal to the sum of all entry fees, buy-ins, re-buy-ins and administrative fees imposed by the facility operator on the contest or tournament participants, minus:

(1)

The cash paid by the facility operator to the contest or tournament winners as prizes; and

(2)

The actual cost paid by the facility operator for noncash prizes awarded to the contest or tournament winners.

If the net revenue from a contest or tournament results in a loss, that loss may not offset the net revenue from another contest or tournament and may not be deducted from the calculation of gross table game revenue.

Gross table game revenue may not include:

(1)

Counterfeit cash or counterfeit value chips;

(2)

Coins or currency of other countries that is not readily convertible to cash; or

(3)

Cash taken in a fraudulent act for which the facility operator is not reimbursed.

Regulation .16 Approval of Table Game Layout, Signage, and Equipment.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall submit to the Commission for approval table game staffing plans, tournament schedules, dealer training programs, and schematics of gaming guides, table game layouts, signage and equipment.

For purposes of this chapter, schematics of table game equipment that shall be submitted to the Commission for review and approval include:

(1)

Cards;

(2)

Dice;

(3)

Pai gow tiles;

(4)

Gaming chips;

(5)

Plaques;

(6)

Commemorative chips;

(7)

Pai gow and sic bo shakers;

(8)

Big Six and roulette wheels;

(9)

Envelopes and containers used to hold or transport table game equipment;

(10)

Match Play Coupons;

(11)

Direct Bet Coupons; and

(12)

Table game equipment that are not otherwise required to be submitted to an independent certified testing laboratory for approval under COMAR 36.03.12.05.

Upon receipt of written approval from the Commission of its submission under §A of this regulation, a facility operator may implement a table game staffing plan, tournament schedule or dealer training program and may utilize a gaming guide, table game layout, signage or equipment in the licensed facility.

A facility operator’s equipment storage and destruction areas may not be used until their location and physical characteristics have been approved by the Commission.

A facility operator shall obtain approval from the Commission for the following:

(1)

Alternative locations for:

(a)

Equipment that is required to be on the gaming table, including drop boxes, shakers, shufflers, discard racks and tip boxes; and

(b)

The complete text of the rules of all authorized games as required under Regulation .24 of this chapter;

(2)

Amendments to the facility operator’s plan for the distribution and collection of slot cash storage boxes, table game drop boxes or bad beat boxes under COMAR 36.03.10.45 and Regulations .07 and .08 of this chapter;

(3)

Sample sets of gaming chips and plaques manufactured in accordance with approved design specifications as required under COMAR 36.05.02.02 and COMAR 36.05.02.09; and

(4)

The collection times for dice, cards, tiles and other table game equipment from the gaming floor.

Regulation .17 Employee Training by Facility Operators.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall develop a training program for its dealers which, at a minimum, includes training in each of the following:

(1)

Procedures for opening and closing tables for gaming, including the proper security procedures regarding table chip inventories;

(2)

Procedures for distributing and removing gaming chips and plaques from gaming tables;

(3)

Procedures for accepting cash at gaming tables;

(4)

Procedures for the acceptance of tips and gratuities from players;

(5)

Procedures for shift changes at gaming tables;

(6)

Procedures for the proper placement of wagers by players and the proper collection of losing wagers and payment of winning wagers; and

(7)

Training in recognizing problem and compulsive gamblers at table games and procedures for informing supervisory personnel.

Regulation .18 Table Test; Employee Personnel File.Link Copy Citation

Before conducting a table game on the facility operator’s gaming floor, a prospective dealer shall pass a table test on the table games that the dealer will be conducting.

A table test required under §A of this regulation shall consist of the dealer demonstrating proficiency at the table game to the satisfaction of an employee of the facility operator who is a pit manager or higher.

A facility operator shall document the following in a dealer’s personnel file:

(1)

Completion of the training program required under Regulation .17 of this chapter; and

(2)

Successful completion of the table test required under §A of this regulation.

Regulation .19 Table Games Rules Submissions.Link Copy Citation

Before offering a table game authorized under the standard rules, a facility operator shall submit to the Commission a rules submission that specifies which options the facility operator will use in the conduct of the table game.

A facility operator may implement the provisions in a rules submission only after receipt of written notice of approval from the Commission.

A facility operator shall maintain the current version of each Commission-approved rules submission so that it is available in electronic form, through secure computer access, to the facility operator’s internal audit and surveillance department and the Commission’s compliance representatives.

Each page of a table game’s rules submission shall indicate the date on which it was approved by the Commission.

A facility operator shall maintain a paper or electronic copy of any superseded rules submission for a minimum of 5 years from the date of Commission approval.

Regulation .20 Request to Offer a New Table Game or Feature.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator that desires to offer a table game or feature that is not already in the standard rules, or to offer a new wager, paytable or other feature as part of table game that has been approved by the Commission, shall submit a written request to the Commission that contains at least:

(1)

A detailed description of the table game or new feature, including the rules of play and wagering for the new table game or feature;

(2)

Description of whether the game is a variation of an authorized game, a composite of authorized games, or a new game;

(3)

Provide the true odds, the payout odds, and the house advantage for each wager;

(4)

Provide a sketch or picture of the game layout, if any;

(5)

Provide sketches, pictures, or samples of the equipment used to play the game;

(6)

The reason for proposing the new table game or feature;

(7)

A list of other gaming jurisdictions where the new table game or feature is currently being offered;

(8)

Whether the game, its name, or any of the equipment used to play the game is covered by any issued or pending copyrights, trademarks or patents; and

(9)

Any other information the Commission requests.

In addition to submitting a change request with the Commission, a facility operator shall, at its expense, submit the new table game or new feature for review to an independent certified testing laboratory certified by the Commission.

Following testing by the independent certified testing laboratory, the Commission will notify the facility operator whether the new table game or new feature has been approved, approved with conditions, or rejected.

Regulation .21 Game Rules; Notice.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall maintain:

(1)

A list of all table games that have been approved by the Commission and the standard rules for each approved table game; and

(2)

Records of a facility operator’s table game or feature rules that have been approved by the Commission.

Except as provided in §C of this regulation, a facility operator may not change the rules under which a particular table game is being operated unless the facility operator submits to, and receives written approval from, the Commission for an amendment to its rules submission under Regulation .19 of this chapter.

A facility operator may increase or decrease the permissible maximum wager or decrease the permissible minimum wager at a table game:

(1)

If no players are playing at the table, at any time; or

(2)

While players are playing the game if the facility operator:

(a)

Provides at least 30 minutes advance notice of the change;

(b)

Posts a sign at the gaming table advising players of the change and the time that it will go into effect; and

(c)

Announces the change to players who are at the table.

Regulation .22 Player Access to Game Rules; Gaming Guide.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall maintain, at its security podium or other location approved in advance by the Commission, a printed copy of the complete text of the standard rules of all authorized games that shall be available to the public for inspection upon request.

A facility operator shall make available to players upon request a gaming guide that contains, in a printed format, an abridged version of the complete text of the standard rules of all authorized games.

The gaming guide required under §B of this regulation may not be issued, displayed or distributed by a facility operator until a sample of the gaming guide has been submitted to and approved by the Commission in accordance with Regulation .16 of this chapter.

A facility operator may display an approved gaming guide at any location in its licensed facility.

Each facility operator shall make the approved gaming guide available on its web site.

Regulation .23 Table Game Payouts.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall use a table game payout document meeting the requirements of this regulation to pay a single payout event that requires the filing of a IRS Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings.

A facility operator shall prepare and timely file IRS Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, in accordance with IRS rules and regulations.

A facility operator shall pay a table game payout of:

(1)

$50,000 or more by check; and

(2)

Less than $50,000 by:

(a)

Cash or check; or

(b)

On the request of a player, any combination of cash, gaming ticket, check, or other methods of payment approved by the Commission.

A facility operator shall develop and include in the internal controls submitted to and approved by the Commission under COMAR 36.03.10.05 procedures addressing the payment of a table game payout event that requires the filing of an IRS Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings.

A facility operator's internal controls shall include:

(1)

The use of a two-part computer generated table game payout document initiated on the request of a dealer or above after verifying the winning combination of characters at the table game and the amount of the payout.

(2)

A requirement that, if a single payout event that requires the filing of an IRS Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, is less than $50,000, a security department employee or floorperson or above sign the payout document after verifying the winning combination of characters at the table game and the amount of the payout.

(3)

A requirement that, if a single payout event that requires the filing of an IRS Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, is $50,000 or more, a pit manager or higher level gaming operations department employee other than the preparer of the document sign the table game payout document after verifying the winning combination of characters at the table game and amount of the payout.

(4)

A requirement that the following information be on a two-part computer generated table game payout document:

(a)

Date and time;

(b)

Identification number of the table game on which the payout was registered;

(c)

Winning combination of characters constituting the payout or a code corresponding to the winning combination of characters constituting the payout;

(d)

Amount to be paid;

(e)

Signature or identification code of the preparer of the document;

(f)

The signature or identification code of a verifying witness in accordance with this regulation; and

(g)

The signature or identification code of the employee issuing the funds;

(5)

A requirement that the surveillance department:

(a)

Be notified of a table game payout of $25,000 or more;

(b)

Log all notices regarding a table game payout in the surveillance log required under COMAR 36.03.10.12; and

(c)

Obtain and retain in accordance with COMAR 36.03.10.11 a photograph of the face of the player receiving the payout;

(6)

Details pertaining to:

(a)

Payment of a payout at the table game;

(b)

The use of an accounting drop box; and

(c)

Audit procedures to be performed by the facility operator's accounting department at the conclusion of each gaming day;

(7)

Procedures addressing unclaimed table game payouts;

(8)

Details which establish the ability of the facility operator's video lottery system to:

(a)

Ensure that a two-part computer generated table game payout document is not susceptible to change or deletion from the system after preparation;

(b)

Process and document system overrides or adjustments to table game payouts including:

(i)

Overrides or adjustments where the payout requested does not match the payout amount; and

(ii)

Identification of the level of employee having override authority; and

(c)

Process voided table game payout documents; and

(9)

Procedures utilized to issue a manual table game payout document which:

(a)

Conform to the table game payout verification and signature requirements of this regulation;

(b)

Involve use of a three-part serially pre-numbered manual table game payout document residing in a book, wiz machine, or functional equivalent;

(c)

Require manual table game payout books or their functional equivalent to be maintained in a secured locked cabinet; and

(d)

Require the key to the cabinet in §E(9)(c) of this regulation to be:

(i)

Controlled by the security department or the table games department in a manual key box or an automated key tracking system; and

(ii)

Limited to sign out by a floorperson or above.

Regulation .24 Progressive Table Games.Link Copy Citation

A table game offering a progressive jackpot may:

(1)

Stand alone;

(2)

Be linked to:

(a)

Other table games in a facility; or

(b)

Table games in two or more facilities in or outside the State through a wide area progressive system.

A manufacturer may not install in a facility, and a facility operator may not make available for play, table game equipment offering a progressive jackpot without written Commission approval of:

(1)

A progressive proposal; and

(2)

Internal controls submitted addressing the payment of a progressive jackpot.

A manufacturer may not modify the terms of a progressive jackpot, and a facility operator may not make available for play, a table game or table game equipment that offers a progressive jackpot that differs from its approved progressive proposal without the approval in writing of the Commission.

A table game may offer multiple progressive jackpots.

A progressive jackpot amount may be calculated and transmitted to a table game or table game device by:

(1)

The operating system of a table game; or

(2)

A separate progressive controller interfaced to a table game or table game equipment.

A progressive controller shall be:

(1)

Located in a restricted area;

(2)

Secured:

(a)

In a dual key controlled compartment with:

(i)

One key controlled by a manufacturer; and

(ii)

One key controlled by the Commission; or

(b)

By alternative means approved by the Commission; and

(3)

Capable of:

(a)

Displaying an available progressive jackpot amount on a table game’s, or table game equipment’s:

(i)

Progressive meter; or

(ii)

Common progressive meter;

(b)

Transmitting to a table game for metering purposes the amount of a progressive jackpot;

(c)

If linked to a common progressive meter in accordance with §H of this regulation, displaying the Commission asset number of the table game on which a progressive jackpot is won;

(d)

If a progressive controller is servicing multiple table games, automatically resetting all table games connected to it to a pre-established reset amount; and

(e)

If the progressive offers multiple jackpot levels, maintaining and displaying for each progressive level the:

(i)

Number of progressive jackpots won;

(ii)

Cumulative amount paid;

(iii)

Maximum progressive payout;

(iv)

Minimum amount or reset amount; and

(v)

Rate of progression.

A table game offering a progressive jackpot shall be equipped, for each progressive jackpot offered, with the following mechanical, electrical, or electronic meters:

(1)

A progressive meter which:

(a)

May increase in value based upon wagers;

(b)

Advises the player of the amount which may be won if the table game characters that result in the award of a progressive jackpot appear as a result of activation of play; and

(c)

Is visible from the table game through:

(i)

A meter display housed in the video lottery terminal; or

(ii)

A common progressive meter display unit;

(2)

A progressive payout meter;

(3)

An attendant paid progressive jackpot meter; and

(4)

A cumulative progressive payout meter that continuously and automatically records the total value of progressive jackpots paid whether paid:

(a)

Directly at the table game; or

(b)

Hand paid by a facility operator as a result of a progressive jackpot that exceeds the physical or configured capability of a table game or table game equipment.

A table game linked to a common progressive meter for the purpose of offering the same progressive jackpot on two or more table games shall:

(1)

Have the same probability of hitting the combination of characters that will award the progressive jackpot as every other table game linked to that common progressive meter; and

(2)

Require each:

(a)

Player to wager the same amount to receive a chance at winning the progressive jackpot; and

(b)

Wager to increment the progressive meter by the same rate of progression on every table game connected to the common progressive meter.

Notwithstanding the requirements of §H of this regulation, table games linked to a common progressive meter for the purpose of offering the same progressive jackpot on two or more table games may be of different denominations or require different wagers, or both, if:

(1)

The probability of winning the progressive jackpot is directly proportional to the wager required to win a jackpot; and

(2)

A notice indicating the proportional probability of hitting the progressive jackpot on the common progressive meter is conspicuously displayed in a manner specified by the Commission on each linked table game.

A manufacturer may not:

(1)

Set a limit for a progressive jackpot which exceeds the display capability of the progressive meter; and

(2)

Adjust a progressive meter without the prior approval of the Commission unless the adjustment is:

(a)

Required as a direct result of table game equipment or meter malfunction; and

(b)

Reported by the manufacturer in a form and in a time frame specified by the Commission to the:

(i)

Commission; and

(ii)

Facility operator.

Regulation .25 Table Game Statistical Data.Link Copy Citation

A facility operator shall maintain complete and accurate records that identify for each table game and type of game by daily, cumulative month-to-date, and cumulative year-to-date basis:

(1)

Statistical drop;

(2)

Statistical win; and

(3)

Statistical win-to-drop percentages.

A facility operator shall:

(1)

Prepare and distribute statistical reports to gaming facility management on at least a monthly basis;

(2)

Using a 95 percent confidence interval, investigate fluctuations outside of the standard deviation from:

(a)

The facility operator’s table game win-to-drop percentage for the previous business year; or

(b)

In the initial year of operations, the previous month; and

(3)

Document the results of the investigation required under §B(2) of this regulation in writing and submit a copy of the written investigation results to the Commission.

Regulation .26 Inspecting Cards.Link Copy Citation

After receiving one or more decks of cards at the table, the dealer shall inspect the cards for any defects and a floorperson assigned to the table shall verify the inspection.

After the cards are inspected, the dealer shall spread the cards out face up on the table, in horizontal fan shaped columns by deck according to suit and in sequence, for visual inspection by the first player to arrive at the table.

After the first player arriving at the table has been afforded an opportunity to visually inspect the cards, the dealer shall:

(1)

Turn the cards face down on the table;

(2)

Mix the cards thoroughly by washing them; and

(3)

Stack the cards.

After the cards have been stacked, the dealer shall shuffle them in accordance with Regulation .27 of this chapter.

If an automated card shuffling device is utilized and two decks of cards are received at the table, each deck of cards shall be spread for inspection, mixed, stacked, and shuffled in accordance with §§A—D of this regulation.

If the decks of cards received at the table are preinspected and preshuffled, §§A—E of this regulation do not apply.

Regulation .27 Shuffling and Cutting the Cards.Link Copy Citation

Unless the cards were preshuffled, the dealer shall shuffle the cards so they are randomly intermixed, manually or with an automated card shuffling device:

(1)

Immediately prior to commencement of play;

(2)

After each round of play has been completed; or

(3)

When directed by a floorperson or above.

A facility operator may use an automated card shuffling device which inserts the stack of cards directly into a dealing shoe after shuffling is complete.

A deck shall be removed from the table if an automated card shuffling device:

(1)

Is being used which counts the number of cards in the deck after the completion of each shuffle and indicates the number of cards present; and

(2)

Reveals that an incorrect number of cards are present.

Upon completion of the shuffle, the dealer or automated shuffling device shall place the decks of cards in a single stack, and:

(1)

If the cards were shuffled using an automated card shuffling device, deal the cards in accordance with Regulation .28, 29 or .30 of this chapter; or

(2)

If the cards were shuffled manually or were preshuffled, cut the cards in accordance with the procedures in §E of this regulation.

If a cut of the cards is required, the dealer shall perform the cut in accordance with the standard rules.

After the cards have been cut and before any cards have been dealt, a floorperson or above may require the cards to be recut if the floorperson determines that the cut was performed improperly or in any way that might affect the integrity or fairness of the game.

If there is no gaming activity at a table which is open for gaming, the dealer shall:

(1)

Remove the cards from the dealing shoe and discard rack;

(2)

Unless a player requests that the cards be spread face up on the table, spread out the cards on the table face down;

(3)

After the first player arriving at the table is afforded an opportunity to visually inspect the cards, complete the procedures in this section and Regulation .26 of this chapter if there is no automated shuffling device in use; and

(4)

If an automated shuffling device is in use, stack the cards and place them into the automated shuffling device to be shuffled, and:

(a)

Remove the batch of cards already in the shuffler; and

(b)

If the automated card shuffling device stores a single batch of shuffled cards inside the shuffler in a secure manner, at a player’s request remove the batch of cards from the shuffler and spread the cards for inspection and reshuffle them prior to dealing.

A facility operator may use a dealing shoe or other device that automatically reshuffles and counts the cards provided that the device is submitted to the Commission and approved prior to its use in the facility.

If a facility operator is using a device described in §H of this regulation, §§E—G of this regulation do not apply.

Regulation .28 Procedure for Dealing Cards from a Manual Dealing Shoe.Link Copy Citation

Requirements. If a manual dealing shoe is used, it shall be located on the table in a location approved by the Commission, and the following requirements shall be met:

(1)

After the procedures required under Regulation .27 of this chapter have been completed, the stacked deck of cards shall be placed in the dealing shoe by the dealer or by an automated card shuffling device.

(2)

Prior to dealing any cards, the dealer shall announce “no more bets”.

(3)

If the Progressive Payout Wager is being offered, the dealer shall use the progressive table game system to prevent the placement of any additional Progressive Payout Wagers.

(4)

If a player has made a Progressive Payout Wager, the dealer shall:

(a)

Collect the Progressive Payout wager in accordance with the standard rules;

(b)

On the layout in front of the table inventory container, verify that the number of value chips wagered equals the number of Progressive Payout Wagers accepted by the progressive table game system; and

(c)

Place the value chips into the table inventory container.

(5)

The dealer shall remove each card from the dealing shoe with the hand of the dealer that is closest to the dealing shoe and place the card on the appropriate area of the layout with the opposite hand.

The dealer shall deal the cards in accordance with the standard rules.

After dealing cards in accordance with the standard rules, the dealer shall:

(1)

Remove the stub from the manual dealing shoe; and

(2)

Except as provided in §G of this regulation, place the stub in the discard rack without exposing the cards.

If an automated card shuffling device described in Regulation .27 of this chapter is not being used, the dealer shall count the stub at least once every 5 rounds of play to determine if the correct number of cards required by the standard rules are still present in the deck.

Number of Cards. The dealer shall determine the number of cards in the stub as required under §D of this regulation by counting the cards face down on the layout.

(1)

If the count of the stub indicates that the correct number of cards is in the deck, the dealer shall place the stub in the discard rack without exposing the cards.

(2)

If the count of the stub indicates that the number of cards in the deck is not correct, the dealer shall determine if the cards were misdealt.

(3)

If correct number of cards remain in the deck, but the cards were misdealt so that a player has more or less than the required number of cards or the dealer has more or less than the required number of cards, all hands are void and the dealer shall return all wagers to the players.

(4)

If the cards were not misdealt as described in §E(3) of this regulation, all hands are void and the dealer shall return all wagers to the players and remove the entire deck of cards from the table.

Regulation .29 Procedure for Dealing Cards from the Hand.Link Copy Citation

Requirements. If the cards are dealt from a dealer’s hand, the following requirements shall be met:

(1)

An automated shuffling device shall be used to shuffle the cards.

(2)

After the procedures required under Regulation .27 of this chapter have been completed, the dealer shall place the stacked deck of cards in either of the dealer’s hand.

(3)

After the dealer has chosen the hand in which to hold the cards, the dealer shall continue to use that hand while holding the cards during that round of play.

(4)

The cards held by the dealer shall be kept over the table inventory container and in front of the dealer at all times.

(5)

Before dealing any cards, the dealer shall:

(a)

Announce “no more bets”; and

(b)

If the Progressive Payout Wager is being offered, use the progressive table game system to prevent the placement of any additional Progressive Payout Wagers.

(6)

If any Progressive Payout Wagers have been made, the dealer shall:

(a)

On the layout in front of the table inventory container, collect the wagers in accordance with the standard rules;

(b)

Verify that the number of value chips wagered equals the number of Progressive Payout Wagers accepted by the progressive table game system; and

(c)

Place the value chips into the table inventory container.

The dealer shall:

(1)

Deal each card by holding the deck of cards in the chosen hand;

(2)

Use the other hand to remove the top card of the deck to place it face down on the appropriate area of the layout;

(3)

Deal the cards in accordance with the standard rules.

(4)

Except as provided in §C of this regulation, after dealing cards in accordance with the standard rules, place the stub in the discard rack without exposing the cards.

If an automated card shuffling device described in Regulation .27 of this chapter is not being used, the dealer shall:

(1)

Count the stub at least once every five rounds of play to determine if the correct number of cards is still present in the deck in accordance with the standard rules; and

(2)

Determine the number of cards in the stub by counting the cards face down on the layout.

If the count of the stub indicates that the correct number of cards is in the deck, the dealer shall place the stub in the discard rack without exposing the cards.

If the count of the stub indicates that the number of cards in the deck is not correct, the dealer shall determine if the cards were misdealt.

If the correct number of cards remains in the deck, but the cards were misdealt so that a player has more or less than the required number of cards or the dealer has more or less than the required number of cards, all hands are void and the dealer shall return all wagers to the players.

If the cards were not misdealt as described in §E of this regulation, all hands are void and the dealer shall return all wagers to the players and remove the entire deck of cards from the table.

Regulation .30 Procedure for Dealing Cards from an Automated Dealing Shoe or Shuffler.Link Copy Citation

Requirements. If cards are dealt from an automated dealing shoe, the following requirements shall be met:

(1)

After the procedures required under Regulation .27 of this chapter have been completed, the dealer shall place the cards in an automated dealing shoe or shuffler.

(2)

Prior to the shoe or shuffler dispensing any stacks of cards, the dealer shall:

(a)

Announce “no more bets”; and

(b)

If the Progressive Payout Wager is being offered, use the progressive table game system to prevent the placement of any additional Progressive Payout Wagers.

(3)

If any Progressive Payout Wagers have been made, the dealer shall:

(a)

On the layout in front of the table inventory container, collect the wagers in accordance with the standard rules;

(b)

Verify that the number of value chips wagered equals the number of Progressive Payout Wagers accepted by the progressive table game system; and

(c)

Place the value chips into the table inventory container.

The dealer shall deal the cards in accordance with the standard rules.

After the cards has been dispensed and delivered in accordance with the standard rules, the dealer shall:

(1)

Remove the stub from the automated dealing shoe; and

(2)

Except as provided in §D of this regulation, place the cards in the discard rack without exposing the cards.

If the count of the stub indicates that the correct number of cards required by the standard rules is in the deck, the dealer shall place the stub in the discard rack without exposing the cards.

If the count of the stub indicates that the number of cards in the deck is not correct, the dealer shall determine if the cards were misdealt.

If the cards were not misdealt as described in §F of this regulation, all hands are void and the dealer shall return all wagers to the players and remove the entire deck of cards from the table.

Regulation .31 Mixing Tiles.Link Copy Citation

After receiving a set of tiles at the table, the dealer shall sort and inspect the tiles and the floorperson assigned to the table shall verify the inspection.

Nothing in this section precludes a facility operator from cleaning the tiles prior to the inspection required in §C of this regulation.

A dealer shall inspect the tiles at the gaming table by:

(1)

Sorting a set of tiles into pairs;

(2)

Placing each tile side by side to determine that all tiles are the same size and shading; and

(3)

Examining the back and sides of each tile to ensure that it is not flawed, scratched, or marked, and if the dealer finds that a tile is unsuitable for use:

(a)

A floorperson or above shall bring another set of tiles to the table from the reserve in the pit stand; and

(b)

The unsuitable set of tiles shall be placed in a sealed envelope or container, identified by table number, date and time and signed by the dealer and floorperson or above.

Following the inspection and verification of the tiles described in §C of this regulation, the dealer shall:

(1)

Turn the tiles face up;

(2)

Place the tiles into 16 pairs;

(3)

Arrange the tiles according to rank; and

(4)

Leave the tiles in pairs for visual inspection by the first player to arrive at the table.

After the first player arriving at the table is afforded an opportunity to visually inspect the tiles, the dealer shall:

(1)

Turn the tiles face down on the table;

(2)

Mix the tiles:

(a)

With the heels of the hands;

(b)

In a circular motion with one hand moving clockwise and the other hand moving counterclockwise; and

(c)

With each hand completing at least eight circular motions to provide a random mixing; and

(3)

Randomly pick up four tiles with each hand and place them side by side in stacks in front of the table inventory container, forming eight stacks of four tiles.

The entire set of tiles shall be remixed if, during the stacking process described in §E(2) of this regulation, a tile is turned over and exposed to the players.

After each round of play has been completed, the dealer shall turn all of the tiles face down and mix the tiles in accordance with §D of this regulation.

If there is no gaming activity at the table, the dealer shall turn the tiles face up and place them into 16 pairs according to rank.

After a player arrives at the table, the dealer shall follow the procedures in §E of this regulation.

Chapter 04. Blackjack Rules

Repealed

Chapter 05. Craps Rules

Repealed

Chapter 06. Poker Rules

Repealed

Chapter 07. Roulette Rules

Repealed

Chapter 08. Big Six Wheel Rules

Repealed

Chapter 09. Four Card Poker Rules

Repealed

Chapter 10. Midi Baccarat Rules

Repealed

Chapter 11. Mississippi Stud Rules

Repealed

Chapter 12. Pai Gow Poker Rules

Repealed

Chapter 13. Texas Hold 'Em Rules

Repealed

Chapter 14. Three Card Poker Rules

Repealed

Chapter 15. Pai Gow Tiles Rules

Repealed

Chapter 16. Ultimate Texas Hold 'Em Rules

Repealed

Chapter 17. Mini Baccarat Rules

Repealed

Chapter 18. Let It Ride Poker Rules

Repealed

Chapter 19. Double Draw Poker Game

Repealed

Title 36 — Subtitle 05. Table Games

Chapter 01. General

Regulation .01 Scope.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Definitions.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 02. Table Game Equipment

Regulation .01 Definitions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Gaming Chips and Promotional Chips.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Value Chips.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Roulette Chips.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Roulette Chips—Permitted Uses, Inventory, and Impressment.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Tournament Chips.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Poker Rake Chips.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Additional Gaming Chips; Removing Chips from Use.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 Plaques.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .10 Permissible Wagers; Exchange and Redemption of Chips and Plaques.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .11 Chips and Plaques—Receipt, Inventory, Security, Storage, and Destruction.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .12 Dice.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .13 Dice — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .14 Sic Bo Shaker Security Procedures.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .15 Cards.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .16 Cards — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .17 Dealing Shoes and Automated Card Shuffling Devices.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .18 Pai Gow Tiles.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .19 Pai Gow Tiles — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .20 Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Games — Requirements.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .21 Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Game System — Procedures.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .22 Tables.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .23 Roulette — Ball, Table, and Wheel Inspection; Security Procedures.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 03. Table Games Procedures

Regulation .01 Personnel Operating and Conducting Table Games.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Table Inventory.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Procedures for Opening a Table Game.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Procedure for Distributing Chips, Coins, and Plaques to a Gaming Table.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Removing a Value Chip, Coin, or Plaque from a Gaming Table.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Accepting Cash for Gaming Chips, Plaques, or Electronic Wagering Credits.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Drop at an Open Table Game.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Procedure for Closing a Table Game.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 Table Inventory for a Poker Table.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .10 Table Inventory Counts.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .11 Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .12 Use of Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .13 Electronic, Electrical, and Mechanical Devices Prohibited.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .14 Minimum and Maximum Wagers; Payout Odds.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .15 Table Game Taxes and Gross Table Game Revenue.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .16 Approval of Table Game Layout, Signage, and Equipment.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .17 Employee Training by Facility Operators.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .18 Table Test; Employee Personnel File.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .19 Table Games Rules Submissions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .20 Request to Offer a New Table Game or Feature.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .21 Game Rules; Notice.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .22 Player Access to Game Rules; Gaming Guide.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .23 Table Game Payouts.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .24 Progressive Table Games.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .25 Table Game Statistical Data.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .26 Inspecting Cards.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .27 Shuffling and Cutting the Cards.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .28 Procedure for Dealing Cards from a Manual Dealing Shoe.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .29 Procedure for Dealing Cards from the Hand.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .30 Procedure for Dealing Cards from an Automated Dealing Shoe or Shuffler.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .31 Mixing Tiles.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 04. Blackjack Rules

Chapter 05. Craps Rules

Chapter 06. Poker Rules

Chapter 07. Roulette Rules

Chapter 08. Big Six Wheel Rules

Chapter 09. Four Card Poker Rules

Chapter 10. Midi Baccarat Rules

Chapter 11. Mississippi Stud Rules

Chapter 12. Pai Gow Poker Rules

Chapter 13. Texas Hold 'Em Rules

Chapter 14. Three Card Poker Rules

Chapter 15. Pai Gow Tiles Rules

Chapter 16. Ultimate Texas Hold 'Em Rules

Chapter 17. Mini Baccarat Rules

Chapter 18. Let It Ride Poker Rules

Chapter 19. Double Draw Poker Game

Regulation .01 Scope.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Gaming Chips and Promotional Chips.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Value Chips.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Roulette Chips.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Roulette Chips—Permitted Uses, Inventory, and Impressment.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Tournament Chips.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Poker Rake Chips.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Additional Gaming Chips; Removing Chips from Use.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Plaques.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Permissible Wagers; Exchange and Redemption of Chips and Plaques.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .11 Chips and Plaques—Receipt, Inventory, Security, Storage, and Destruction.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .12 Dice.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .13 Dice — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .14 Sic Bo Shaker Security Procedures.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .15 Cards.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .16 Cards — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .17 Dealing Shoes and Automated Card Shuffling Devices.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .18 Pai Gow Tiles.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .19 Pai Gow Tiles — Receipt, Storage, Inspection, and Removal.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .20 Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Games — Requirements.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .21 Dealer Controlled Electronic Table Game System — Procedures.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .22 Tables.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .23 Roulette — Ball, Table, and Wheel Inspection; Security Procedures.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Personnel Operating and Conducting Table Games.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Table Inventory.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Procedures for Opening a Table Game.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Procedure for Distributing Chips, Coins, and Plaques to a Gaming Table.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Removing a Value Chip, Coin, or Plaque from a Gaming Table.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Accepting Cash for Gaming Chips, Plaques, or Electronic Wagering Credits.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Drop at an Open Table Game.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Procedure for Closing a Table Game.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Table Inventory for a Poker Table.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Table Inventory Counts.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .11 Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .12 Use of Match Play Coupons and Direct Bet Coupons.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .13 Electronic, Electrical, and Mechanical Devices Prohibited.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .14 Minimum and Maximum Wagers; Payout Odds.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .15 Table Game Taxes and Gross Table Game Revenue.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .16 Approval of Table Game Layout, Signage, and Equipment.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .17 Employee Training by Facility Operators.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .18 Table Test; Employee Personnel File.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .19 Table Games Rules Submissions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .20 Request to Offer a New Table Game or Feature.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .21 Game Rules; Notice.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .22 Player Access to Game Rules; Gaming Guide.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .23 Table Game Payouts.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .24 Progressive Table Games.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .25 Table Game Statistical Data.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .26 Inspecting Cards.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .27 Shuffling and Cutting the Cards.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .28 Procedure for Dealing Cards from a Manual Dealing Shoe.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .29 Procedure for Dealing Cards from the Hand.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .30 Procedure for Dealing Cards from an Automated Dealing Shoe or Shuffler.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .31 Mixing Tiles.Link Copy Citation