Tina Griffin

The meeting initiated discussion on a petitioner's request to amend the WAC concerning self-exclusion term limits, allowing participants the option to remove themselves before their term expires. A significant portion of the meeting involved extensive administrative updates regarding the replacement of legacy systems with a new cloud-based system on the Dynamics 365 Microsoft platform. These changes are projected to increase business efficiency, streamline processes such as online applications, allow direct communication with licensees via the new system, introduce role-based access, enable online invoice payment, and provide real-time tracking of application processes. The planned go-live date for the new system was confirmed as May 11th, with a communication push planned for upcoming dates leading up to that time. The consent agenda, which included the February 12th commission meeting minutes and new licenses/gaming employees, was approved.

This document details the Polaris project, a strategic initiative by the Washington State Gambling Commission to transform its operations through a modern, adaptable system. The project aims to increase business efficiency, improve employee satisfaction, and reduce the risk of outdated systems. Key changes include mandatory online submissions, secure digital communication, enhanced employer visibility of employee licenses, expanded application options, a unified license number, and refined user roles. The update outlines benefits such as flexible payments, expanded invoice visibility, increased user access, and real-time application tracking, all leading to reduced email correspondence. The document also provides a project timeline, including a May 11th go-live date, and offers preparation guidelines and training opportunities.

The meeting agenda included several key items under Rule Making and Administrative Procedure Act Proceedings. Discussions covered a Petition to Initiate Rule Making concerning Self-Exclusion term limits and another Petition regarding an Equipment/Self-dealing table. The consent agenda addressed new licenses and Class III Gaming Employees, along with the approval of the February 12, 2026 Commission Meeting Minutes. Other significant topics included updates on the My Account/Polaris system, the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, the 2026 Legislative Session Report, presentations regarding Problem Gambling from the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling and the Health Care Authority, and a Default item (CR 2025-01543). The session concluded with an Executive Session.

The meeting agenda covered the proposed tribal gaming compact amendment for the Squaxon Island tribe, which involves restating and simplifying the existing compact, incorporating recent adjustments, and adding new appendices regarding limitations and electronic table games. The commission also addressed a petition to initiate rulemaking to remove wager limits on poker, which was ultimately denied as it was deemed outside the commission's regulatory authority. A presentation was provided regarding prediction markets and their classification relative to sports event contracts, highlighting the conflict between federal commodities regulation and state-level gambling safeguards. The consent agenda, which included approval of the January 8th, 2026 commission meeting minutes and new licenses, was approved.

The session addressed a petition requesting the removal of wager limits on poker, specifically concerning WAC 230-15-135. A commissioner expressed concern that granting this request falls outside the commission's regulatory authority, citing that the public policy of Washington State mandates strict regulation and control over gambling to keep the criminal element out and protect the public, which removing limits on wagers would violate. The consensus was that this request should instead be made to the legislature. The commission ultimately voted to deny the petition based on the determination that it exceeded their regulatory authority.