Hearing on Table Games in PA

Supporters of an effort to bring table games to Pennsylvania casinos say the measure will likely end up as part of the budget process.
A host of industry experts appeared before the House Gaming Oversight Committee to discuss the prospect of legalizing blackjack, craps, roulette and other table games in Pennsylvania’s casinos.
Greene County Democrat Bill DeWeese, who’s sponsoring the House version of the bill, says the commonwealth could generate over 100 million dollars in licensing fees if table games are legalized this year.

"As the budget negotiations drag on at a very slothful place, the need for revenue becomes more apparent. It’s a screaming need for revenue. This is not casual. This is an emergency. And it’s not as if we are pushing something that is brand new. This is something we have been talking about for at least a decade and a half."

Majority Leader Todd Eachus, a Luzerne County Democrat, argues the oversight structure for expanded gaming is already in place.

"The facilities in Pennsylvania where table games would take place are already licensed. There would be an additional license fee associated with the table games. But they’re already regulated and the oversight of the Gaming Control Board is already there at all the sites where there could be additional table games."

DeWeese’s bill would impose a 21 percent tax on games, while a competing Senate measure would set a 12 percent rate.
A spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi says the Republican isn’t opposed to legalizing table games, but wants to see gambling reform legislation passed first.