Pennsylvania to consider online gambling on June 6

The House shot down online gambling late last month by a 107-81 vote despite pleas for ‘yes’ votes from Rep. John Payne, sponsor of the Internet casino plan.

“

“

Pennsylvania casinos are mostly in favor of online gaming, but they are opposed to a wide range of establishments—taverns, bars, social clubs and volunteer fire halls—obtaining the VGTs

”

Because Pennsylvania is facing a budget crisis, the state is looking at other forms of gaming expansion along with online casino games. The discussion about whether the gaming reform package should allow more slot machine-like games, called video gaming terminals (VGTs), throughout the Keystone State is seen as the reason for the online gaming debate being complicated. The issues have become completely intertwined. There are, of course, some lawmakers who are still straight-up opposed to gambling on the web, specifically with credit cards.

Pennsylvania casinos are mostly in favor of online gaming, but they are opposed to a wide range of establishments—taverns, bars, social clubs and volunteer fire halls—obtaining the VGTs. With that being said, the casinos are OK with the machines coming to airports.

Payne said during last month’s hearing that he has held 47 meetings and hearings for online gaming over the past year and a half. Hopefully June 6 will be the final one in the House. The Senate would also have to approve the plan, and then it would need the governor’s signature.