A bill introduced in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives would require the state’s 12 casinos to close between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. daily. Its sponsor, Republican Rep. Will Talman, says it will be a hedge against problem gambling.
“I propose this legislation to help our problem gamblers take a step back for a few hours from playing slot machines and table games and understand their addiction,” Talman said in a memo last month, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. “By just closing for these few hours, we may be able to help a few individuals from going over the limits with gambling.”
The bill is at odds with a report from the House Legislative Budget and Finance Committee last year that recommended allowing casino bars to keep serving alcohol between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. as a boost for business. Currently, bars must close at 2 a.m. in accordance with state liquor laws.
