PA House Approves Internet Gaming Amendment
HARRISBURG (CBS) -- The state House has given preliminary approval to legislation that would expand gambling in Pennsylvania, including legalization of Internet gaming… but without a controversial proposal to allow video gaming terminals in taverns.
The House Wednesday considered amendments to a bill that would legalize and regulate daily fantasy sports wagering. Chester Democrat Thaddeus Kirkland said an amendment that would have allowed video gaming in bars would harm existing casinos like Harrah's Philadelphia.
"We have invested mightily… and they have invested mightily in us… meaning the casinos that are throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," Kirkland said. "It would simply be a slap in the face to them."
That amendment was defeated after lengthy debate. Then with no debate, the House approved another amendment that would legalize Internet gaming, and would allow for slots play at airports and off-track betting locations. The expansion of gaming is a piece of the revenue puzzle in the state budget picture. The amended bill will still need a final vote in the House before being sent to the Senate.