I'm not allowed in the casino! (Legal ID ruled illegitimate)

[Michael Davis]

What do you think I should do here?

Many may think this is no big deal, or a nobrainer on my part, but I am somewhat confused. I feel like what I should do in principle and in practice are not the same. So, here goes:

I have been playing at the only poker room in Detroit at least four times a week since school ended in April. Prior to that, I played maybe once a week, probably a little less on average. Though they don't make as much off of me as they might from others, I am a good player for the casino to have: I never complain about bad beats, never treat anyone with disrespect at the tables; in general, I act with a professional attitude. Additionally, I have been the source of a few conversations with the crazy outfits I have worn, adding to everybody's fun. (Also willing to play shorthanded!)

The problem: I look like I'm twelve years old when I am in fact double that. Of course, it is reasonable that I am frequently harassed by security and that my identification is scrutinized. Back in April, they did not let me in the casino because the height on my license was three inches shorter than my actual height (it had not been changed since I was 16). I promptly went to the Sec. of State and paid $6.55 for a new license so I could go back to the casino.

Today, while heading into the casino, my license would not scan in their systems. This happens occasionally, but they just enter my license number, everything works, and I get in. Today, however, nothing worked. Despite the fact that I was known by two of three security guards and provided verification that I was a poker room regular, I was not allowed in the casino.

So...what should I do?

Should I go get another new license?
Should I contact a top casino executive and explain my situation?

Or...the choice I am (sadly) considering is to play exclusively online poker. My hourly is cut by about $4.00 (18%) by doing this, but it may be worth it. I much prefer live poker, but I'm just not sure I want to put up with this anymore. At what point am I allowed to be an adult without eyebrows raised and noses scrunched?

[John Feeney]

Michael,

It sure doesn't sound to me as though you should have to give up playing live. I think first I'd contact the Sec. of State, Dept. of Motor Vehichles, or whatever appropriate dept., explain the situation and ask if the problem could be with your license. If so, then you may need to get that new license. If not, then I would think the next step would be the talk with the casino exec. Offer to provide whatever evidence/verification they need, ask them to try scanning your license again, etc. If all else fails, you might consider paying for an hour of legal advice, which might be enough to cover a quick letter from the attorney to the casino as well. But from what you say, I see no reason why they'd want to keep you out if they were convinced that you were of age. Could some individual player with some pull there have taken a disliking to you??

[Michael Davis]

Mr. Feeney,

No, there is no way any player with any pull would have had me banned. The security staff is overzealous.

Most of the security guards know me as they've checked my ID with no problem many times. Unfortunately, there was a supervisor there when this problem happened who made it clear I would not be allowed in. When I protested, he said, "Well, if you've been allowed here in the past, that was wrong. What I'm doing is right."

They "claim" that they punched in the number of my license. He also "claimed" to be a retired police officer, and he expressed serious doubts as to the legitimacy of my license.

I am fairly certain the problem is with my license (the metallic strip), but my license number not appearing in their system is very bizarre. When the strip has failed to scan in the past, they punch my number, and it comes up no problem. I may be able to get this problem sorted out, but do I want to? Is it my responsibility to cater to the casino's demands when the identification I am carrying is perfectly legitimate?

I guess I'm asking a question that can only be decided personally. Do I want to deal with situations like this any more, or do I just want to stay home?

Thanks for your response.

-Mike

[John Feeney]

Well, I think the problem would be over if you could work it so that someone in a position of authority above the security supervisor knew you, and knew you were of age. Good luck with it.

[Michael Davis]

Dr. Feeney,

I'm guessing you weren't really bothered, but I apologize for calling you Mr.

-Mike

[Wake up CALL]

"Is it my responsibility to cater to the casino's demands when the identification I am carrying is perfectly legitimate?"

Yes it is, you enter the casino at their pleasure not yours. Even if your license scanned perfectly well they still have the right to refuse you entrance for any reason not prohibited by federal or state law. (ala discrimination due to race, religion, sex or being over 55 years)

[Michael Davis]

Could I theoretically challenge on the basis of discrimination against the young looking? At least, when one who looks young can provide adequate proof, a state-issued identification that I'm sure can be verified on some system?

-Mike

[slamdunkpro]

Nope, the young are not a protected group. - Get a passport.

[John Feeney]

Please just call me John. /images/graemlins/smirk.gif

[rharless]

Just get the problem with your ID sorted out with the state. It's not the casino's fault it won't scan, unless they have faulty equipment, which is not likely. Discrimination on the basis of age? Gimme a break! These people are just doing their job, as they are paid to do.

Also, the passport idea is a good one too.

Once a security guy did NOT id me because he said the wrinkles on my forehead told him that I was of legal age. Perhaps I should have sued him for making a negative comment on my appearance. Who tells a lady (who is 'only' 30) that she has wrinkles??

[Michael Davis]

Thanks for your sympathy. /images/graemlins/crazy.gif