The two party leaders of a key committee of the Pennsylvania State Senate have responded to a letter sent by 10 Pennsylvania casino owners, saying they will consider the casinos’ proposals of rule changes to help the industry stay competitive.
The March 17 letter to the General Assembly, from the owners of six racinos and four stand-alone casinos, asked lawmakers to eliminate minimum staffing requirements, permit 24-hour alcohol service, expedite slot approvals by accepting certifications from other jurisdictions, and provide tax credits for reinvestment in their properties.
State Senators Kim Ward and Sean Wiley, the Republican and Democratic leaders of the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee, wrote in response to the March 17 letter, “We will carefully review and consider the various points addressed by the signatories as we attempt to ascertain what actions, legislative or otherwise, are necessary and warranted.
“However, to ensure the continued success of the PA gaming industry, Pennsylvania must take the necessary steps to maintain a business environment that will protect and increase the attractiveness of PA casinos to gaming patrons in an increasingly competitive environment.”
