Minors people under 18 years old in south carolina are not allowed to play pinball

Minors in South Carolina: A Surprising Pinball Restriction

If you are under the age of 18 and enjoy playing pinball, you may want to think twice before heading to South Carolina. In an interesting twist, minors in the Palmetto State are not allowed to indulge in this classic arcade game.

According to Section 63-19-2430 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, pinball machines fall under the category of “amusement devices.” These devices include pinball machines, mechanical games, and electronic games that are primarily used for entertainment purposes. While it may seem harmless to most, South Carolina has specific regulations that prohibit minors from playing pinball.

The South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 63-19-2430 (B)(2), states that “No minor, under the age of eighteen years, may operate amusement devices during curfew hours.” Curfew hours are defined as the hours between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Therefore, during these designated hours, minors are not allowed to operate or play pinball machines.

This restriction might come as a surprise, especially in the era of modern gaming and advanced technology. Pinball, a game that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades, is subject to these regulations in South Carolina.

It is worth mentioning that this restriction does not apply to adult players. Pinball enthusiasts above the age of 18 can freely enjoy the game at any time, even during curfew hours.

To understand the rationale behind this law, it is important to consider the historical context. The regulation was originally put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of minors during curfew hours. By limiting access to pinball machines, authorities aimed to discourage unsupervised late-night activities and prevent potential delinquent behavior.

However, it is worth noting that this restriction has sparked debates and discussions among individuals who argue that it is outdated and unnecessary. Pinball is generally perceived as a harmless game, and many believe that minor restrictions on its play should be reconsidered.

As of now, the ban on minors playing pinball in South Carolina remains in effect. Although it may seem like an unusual and little-known law, it is still part of the state’s legislation. Therefore, if you are under 18 and find yourself in South Carolina, you might have to find alternative sources of entertainment during curfew hours.

In conclusion, while pinball continues to be a popular pastime in many parts of the world, South Carolina stands as an exception, imposing restrictions that disallow minors from engaging in this classic arcade game. Whether this legislation will undergo any amendments or adjustments in the future remains uncertain. However, for now, youngsters will need to find other outlets for entertainment during curfew hours in the Palmetto State.

Source: South Carolina State House