Pennsylvania House of Representatives passes gambling bill

The House approved an all-encompassing gambling bill that would authorise online casino games and poker, allow slot machines at off-track betting parlors and airports and regulate DFS.

US.- The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed an all-encompassing gambling bill under which online casino games and poker would be authorised, slot machines at off-track betting parlors and airports would be allowed and daily fantasy sports would be regulated.

Bill HB 2150 was approved by the House after a 114-85 vote one week after it was rejected by a 116-79 vote because of a video gaming terminal element. On that very same day, after a short recess, the bill was given initial approval after the authorisation of VGTs in bars, private clubs and restaurants was removed.

“[This] bipartisan vote is the first step toward ensuring Pennsylvania consumers can safely participate in interactive gaming,” commented House Gaming Oversight Chairman Rep. John Payne (R-Dauphin). “I believe we have developed a comprehensive and fair approach, and I hope the Senate and the governor will agree to make this legislation a priority as we head toward the June 30 budget deadline.”

The bill now heads to the Senate where, if approved, would need the signature and final approval of Gov. Tom Wolf. If it gets that far, the Keystone State would join New Jersey, Nevada and Delaware as the only U.S. states to allow online gambling.