SEARCH NEWS:

 

Pennsylvania Passes Slot Bill

PENNSYLVANIA – As reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer: "Philadelphia Park is in the running again.

"Fresh off the Kentucky Derby and Preakness wins of homeboy Smarty Jones, the Bensalem racetrack could be among the first sites in Pennsylvania to give slots players a place to drop their coins.

"Under the gaming bill the state legislature passed, the Bucks County racetrack and three others are eligible for 18-month conditional licenses. With them, they could operate as 'racinos' until permanent licenses are issued to 14 facilities across the state, including two gaming parlors in Philadelphia and a track planned in Chester.

"First, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, a seven-member commission charged with approving slots applications, must be formed.

"…The Bensalem track and most of the other sites could initially install up to 3,000 machines, and expand to 5,000 within six months.

"It may take longer for Lucky Sevens, Double Diamonds, and other slot games to start popping up in Philadelphia and Chester. Philadelphia will get two slot parlors, but no locations have been selected. Three Center City sites have been discussed - at Eighth and Market, 12th and Market, and on the Delaware waterfront - but those sites could not be opened until permanent licenses are issued.

"…Gov. Rendell is scheduled to sign the slots legislation today at Philadelphia Park. He has 60 days after signing the bill to appoint three members to the gaming control board; each of the four legislative leaders would appoint one member…"

< Gaming News