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Pennsylvania Board Adopts Strict Policy

PENNSYLVANIA – As reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer: "The state's Gaming Control Board adopted a strict policy yesterday that includes prohibitions against political activity, accepting gifts from the gambling industry, or owning an interest in any casino-related firm doing business in Pennsylvania.

"The new Code of Ethics 'goes a long way' to ensure the integrity of the process through which 14 casino operations will be licensed this year, Gaming Control Board member Mary DiGiacomo Colins said.

"Board Chairman Thomas 'Tad' Decker said the ethics code would forbid back-room discussions about license applications between board members and any 'interested parties,' including lawyers, lobbyists or employees of slot applicants.

"The board removed a specific mention of public officials among the interested parties because, Decker said, it insulted elected officials to assume they would insert themselves into the process.

"…Under the new rules, board members are banned from all political activity, including holding office, raising campaign funds, or contributing to campaigns.

"They cannot solicit charitable donations from gambling companies, or accept any gift or discount not available to the general public worth more than $50…"

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