Pennsylvania casino operators commented last week on the numerous bills introduced in the legislature to expand gaming in the state. Several operators commented on proposed 24-hour alcohol service, VLTs in bars, slots at off-track betting facilities and internet gaming in an article published by the Allentown Morning Call.
Every operator interviews supports round-the-clock drink service eliminating the current restriction on selling alcohol between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. However, some objected to the $5 million fee included in the state Senate bill proposing the change.
“Definitely, 24-hour alcohol service would be an enhancement for us,” commented Mike Bean, CEO at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, “but I’m not sure we’d be willing to pay a $5 million fee for it.”
Most operators, particularly the racino executives, support legislation that would allow casinos to place hundreds of slot machines at OTB parlors. There was little support for a House bill that would allow bars in the state to add up to five VLTs each, but near-unanimous support for the four bills that would legalize internet gaming.
“Penn National firmly believes that iGaming is a vital tool to enable Pennsylvania’s gaming industry to continue to evolve and protect what has been built here, Penn National spokesman Eric Shippers told the Morning Call. “The advent of intense competition in every direction, however, necessitates that the commonwealth and the industry do things differently.”
The notable exception to support for internet gaming was Mark Juliano, president of Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem, owned by iGaming opponent Sheldon Adelson’s Las Vegas Sands Corp. Juliano told the newspaper he is opposed not only to iGaming in the state, but to all the expansion measures, which he said will take revenue from the current brick-and-mortar casinos.
“Today, proposals are being considered which will erode the successful progress we have made in Pennsylvania,” Juliano said. “Approving internet gambling, slots at OTBs and VGTs will only hurt the business that many in Harrisburg say they want to help.”
