Pennsylvania Senate approves bill to reduce minimum number of slots at casinos
The proposal would reduce the minimum number of slot machines required at Category 1 and Category 2 casinos.
US.- The Pennsylvania Senate has approved legislation sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin to reduce the minimum number of slot machines on casino floors. The bill now heads to the state House of Representatives for consideration.
Senate Bill 840 would reduce the minimum number of slot machines required at Category 1 and Category 2 casinos from 1,500 to 1,000. The current 1,500-machine minimum was established nearly two decades ago as part of the state’s original gaming legislation.
Laughlin said the proposed change was intended to reflect “shifting market conditions and increased competition in the gaming industry.”
He stated: “When Pennsylvania first legalized gaming, surrounding states like Ohio and New York didn’t have casinos. That’s no longer the case. Facilities like Presque Isle Downs & Casino in Erie are facing growing competition from out-of-state casinos and online gaming platforms. Reducing the slot machine requirement gives these businesses the flexibility to adapt while preserving jobs and tax revenue.
“This bill is about modernization and sustainability. It’s a commonsense reform that protects jobs, strengthens our local economy and allows our gaming industry to remain competitive in a changing market.”
Pennsylvania gaming revenue increases in May
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has reported that combined revenue from all forms of gaming and fantasy contests was $601.8m in May, up 15.52 per cent year-over-year and 8.7 per cent from April. It’s the first time that monthly gross gaming revenue has exceeded $600m.
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course reported $107.1m in revenue, up 31.1 per cent year-over-year, Valley Forge Casino Resort $105.7m, up 32.9 per cent and Parx Casino $59.1m, up 4.4 per cent.
