Leaders in the City of Orange have taken the first step toward banning 8-liner amusement machines and game rooms, aligning with a recent Texas court ruling that found such machines unconstitutional due to their element of chance. During a recent City Council meeting, officials approved the first reading of an ordinance prohibiting amusement redemption machines and game rooms within city limits, with a second reading scheduled for a future meeting.
Kelvin Knauf, Director of Planning and Community Development, explained that the ordinance stems from a Fort Worth court case in which the Second Court of Appeals ruled the machines unconstitutional — a decision that the Texas Supreme Court declined to review. “The action taken by the City of Orange mirrors steps already taken by the City of Fort Worth,” Knauf noted.
Currently, approximately 20 businesses in Orange operate about 140 amusement redemption machines. Before this new ordinance, operators were required to obtain permits for both the game rooms and each machine. The city was in the process of finalizing its permitting process when the court’s decision was handed down.
City officials cited public safety concerns as another factor influencing their decision. Knauf highlighted reports from other cities linking game rooms to crimes such as theft and assault, particularly when large cash prizes are involved.
Mayor Larry Spears emphasized during the meeting that this move is not isolated to Orange but follows broader legal and municipal trends across Texas. “We want everyone, both present and watching online, to understand this is not an action the City of Orange is undertaking independently,” Mayor Spears said.
If approved during the second reading, the ordinance will take effect on August 4, 2025, providing business owners time to remove the machines. Additionally, a complementary zoning ordinance will be introduced to permanently prohibit game rooms in all city districts.
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