In Iowa, a new statewide smoking ban took effect at midnight, and includes bars and restaurants. Fines of up to $300 and loss of business and liquor licenses may be imposed on venues that violate the ban. Iowa is the 23rd state to put restrictions on indoor smoking in public places. It is too soon to know the impact on operators.

   It is another blow to the Iowa amusement industry, following record floods this past summer in numerous counties. Many operators lost huge amounts of their own equipment and inventory, not to mention the destruction of many of their customers' locations. The total loss is still unknown.

   A new state law in Indiana permits taverns that purchase a $250 gambling license to offer low-stakes gambling, including pull-tab vending machines. More than 450 gambling licenses have already been requested by taverns statewide. This new program eliminates operators from participating in the new gaming market. This may be a reaction to a crackdown by state law enforcement officials on the gray-game market in recent years, prior to legalizing pull tabs for bar owners.

   Pull-tab machines vend small paper cards, sold for up to $1 each. Players lift the tabs, hoping the revealed symbols earn a prize. Winners may collect their cash instantly. Award amounts and payoff percentages are strictly regulated. Only state licensed dealers may sell gaming tickets, supplies and machines.

   The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Enforcement agency is stepping up its campaign to shut down illegal slots and pokers. Hundreds of video poker machines have been seized in recent months, and dozens of clubs and fire halls have been cited for violations.

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