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Pennsylvania Could Vote for Video Slots

PENNSYLVANIA – As reported by the (Pennsylvania) Express- Times: "…Satisfying the urge to slide a quarter into a slot machine might soon be as easy as walking down the street and visiting a neighborhood saloon. That's because a vote to allow video slot machines in local taverns could come as early as this week, according to state Rep. Paul Costa, D-Allegheny.

"Some officials and tavern owners say the legislation could make Pennsylvania the Lord of the Chings.

"…The vote comes on the heels of the federal investigation into the Fraternal Order of Fleas, an Easton social club that authorities say took in millions of dollars in illegal gambling proceeds over the past few years and never paid taxes on a dime of the money.

"…Costa said the legislation he sponsored would allow tavern owners to place up to three video slot machines in their establishments. Each machine would be linked to the state lottery system to safeguard against corruption and to help track how much money is being generated.

"The machine vendors, tavern owners and state would each receive 30 percent of the take, while the municipalities where the bars are would receive the remaining 10 percent, Costa said. This could translate into as much as $9 million in added revenue for Pittsburgh alone, he said.

"…Costa said in addition to reducing illegal gambling and creating added revenue, placing video slots in bars might also lead to a major reduction in property taxes…"

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