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Pennsylvania Lawmakers Reach Slot Agreement

PENNSYLVANIA – As reported by the Philadelphia Daily News: "Nothing's in writing, and there's still potential for the deal to break down.

"But key figures in Harrisburg indicated yesterday that they've reached a basic agreement on legalizing slot machines in Pennsylvania - a deal that is likely to put two major slot franchises in Center City Philadelphia.

"It's the first sign of life for a slot-machine proposal since last summer - and the promise of hundreds of millions of dollars in state revenue will give it strong support as the legislature struggles with the state budget over the next six weeks.

"The tentative settlement calls for slot machines to be permitted at up to 15 locations throughout the state:

"…Other features of the agreement include:

"-Creation of a seven-member state gaming board that will evaluate applications, award licenses and regulate the gaming industry as it gets under way

"…- A commitment to devote the state's share of gambling revenues, 34 percent of the profits, to property tax relief.

"…[Republican Sen. Robert "Tommy" Tomlinson] said he had two non-negotiable demands: first, that local governments get a 4 percent share of gambling proceeds, and second, that the legislation does nothing to help American Indian tribes who hope to establish gambling operations in Pennsylvania…"

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