It’s all about charity.

An electronic pull tab (also known as an ETAB) is a digital version of a paper pull tab game. It is a familiar product provided in an entertaining and modern format. ETAB devices come in several forms: full cabinets with 43-inch screens for maximum entertainment, bar-top cabinets with 24-inch screens and smaller footprints, and 14- inch portable tablets.

Electronic pull tab games are constructed the same as paper pull tab games. There is a set number of tickets (15,000) in each deal; the winners are predetermined and randomly mixed within the deal; and there is a definite payout (up to 90%). Just like paper pull tab games, electronic games are played among all patrons at a single location, with players competing against the other players for a chance to win.

Games can be assigned to individual permittees, just like paper games, and multiple permittees may be in a single location. There are multiple games on each electronic pull tab device, which can have different price points (i.e. $.25/$.50/$1/$2). The prizes are capped at $500. The system contains reporting and record keeping features that record all plays and provide detailed reports configured to state requirements.

An electronic pull tab system comes with all devices (maximum of 10 per location/ 5 per vendor location), a server (into which all games are loaded), and a POS system. There is no up-front charge for the equipment. The equipment will be provided by a distributor specially licensed to install and service the devices and the system. There is no additional charge for installation, technical support, or for service once the devices are operational.

Distributor pricing may vary, much like it does with paper pull tab games. In the other states where electronic pull tabs are operational, the pricing runs between 30-35% of ideal net. Invoicing is on tickets sold. Unlike with paper pull tab games, there is no charge for tickets that are not sold through the system (i.e. unplayed tickets).

In every other state where electronic pull tabs are operated, the charitable organizations have seen significant increases in net revenue. There is no reason to believe that Alaska will be any different. Data directly from each state regulatory agency demonstrates that the average increase in net revenue across the ETAB states is 74%. That is 74% more revenue to the organization. Factoring in the cost of the games, Alaska charities can expect to see profits increase by about 44%. That is another $20 Million for Alaska charities! This is not speculation. It is based on actual data from the other ETAB states.

No. ETABS do not require any special internet. Standard internet is fine, and it does not have to be a private network. It can be the same internet currently existing in the location. Some systems are more sensitive to internet interruption than others. Look for a system with a site server which can withstand internet interruption because the games are loaded on the site server and once there, can be operated without a stable internet connection.

Yes. ETAB games tend to play faster, and the prize payout is generally higher, up to 90%. If ETABS are permitted in Alaska, current legislation increases the prize cap to reflect the addition of ETAB revenue. For all permittees, including those that use operators, the prize cap would be adjusted to $2 Million for paper ticket sales and an ADDITIONAL $3 Million for electronic ticket sales. This is a total of $5 Million that can be awarded each year in prizes per organization.

Yes. Data from other states demonstrates that the introduction of electronic pull tabs has a significant effect on membership in Veteran service organizations, like the VFW, American Legion, AmVets, etc. The same is true for Fraternal clubs, like the Moose, Elks, and Eagles. In a survey done in Ohio after only 1 year of electronic pull tab operation, 97% of respondents (all veteran and fraternal clubs) reported a positive increase in membership.

No. In the other states where electronic pull tabs are operated, paper ticket sales remain strong. In fact, in many states, there is an increase in paper ticket sales as the products complement each other. Some companies even base their digital games on popular paper ticket games, providing the player with an entertaining new experience on a familiar product.

Yes. The electronic pull tab system includes features that simplify recordkeeping and reporting. This means less work, less accounting, and less paperwork for the organization. The devices record all cash-in and all prizes paid (credits), and the information is accessible via the Point-of-Sale system that accompanies the devices. Reports can be configured to state requirements and may be filed manually or electronically. In the near future, you can expect the E-tab POS system to be compatible with TAB KING and TAB WIZARD so that all record keeping, both paper and electronic, can be consolidated and simplified.

Electronic pull tab devices can be used by multiple permittees, with the system keeping track of all play data for each permittee separately. If a permittee hits the prize cap, the game can be paused in the system until such time as the permittee is allowed to resume gaming activity. Electronic pull tabs systems will also make it easier to track prizes to prevent exceeding the $3 Million cap.

Electronic pull tab systems contain multiple security features to increase accountability. The system requires personal log-ins and passwords and records access to the system and the time of access. Ticket vouchers issued by the cabinet-style devices are bar coded to ensure that payment is made from a device at the location and within the permitted time span of operation. These security features increase accountability and eliminate shrinkage.

Tablet devices are designed with cases to prevent breakage and are configured to shut off if taken from the premises. Once shut off, the devices cannot be used for any purpose, which minimizes theft.

Very little. An electronic pull tab cabinet device requires about the same amount of electricity as a small refrigerator. Tablets require electricity only for charging and operating the POS system, which is minimal.

Yes. First of all, there should be no reduction in paper pull tab sales, so bartenders and sellers will continue to get tipped for redemption of paper tickets. With electronic pull tabs, tips will continue to be provided upon the cashing of credit vouchers and/or the return of the devices.