The Pennsylvania Casino Industry (PCI) is expressing deep concern over a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow for the expansion of lottery and gambling operations in the state. The measure is currently just one vote away from passing in the state Senate, prompting the PCI to voice its reservations about the potential negative impact on the state’s existing gaming industry.
The proposed amendment, which is known as Senate Bill 1028, would remove the current restriction on the number of satellite casinos that can be operated in the state. It would also allow for the expansion of online gambling and sports betting, as well as the introduction of games of skills and instant win games.
The PCI, which represents the state’s 12 licensed casinos, has warned that the proposed amendment could have serious consequences for the existing gaming industry. In a statement released on Tuesday, the organization expressed concerns about the potential for increased competition and market saturation, which could threaten the viability of current casinos.
“We are deeply concerned about the impact that this proposed amendment could have on our industry,” said PCI President Jane Smith. “Allowing for the expansion of lottery and gambling operations could lead to a situation where the market becomes oversaturated, resulting in decreased revenues for existing casinos and potentially forcing some to close their doors.”
The organization also raised concerns about the potential for increased problem gambling, as well as the impact on local communities and the economy. “We have seen firsthand the negative consequences that can result from the expansion of gambling operations,” Smith said. “We urge the state Senate to carefully consider the potential implications of this proposed amendment before taking any further action.”
Despite the concerns raised by the PCI, supporters of the proposed amendment argue that it could generate significant revenue for the state and provide much-needed funding for education and other public services. Proponents also maintain that the expansion of gambling operations could help to attract more tourists to the state and create new job opportunities.
The fate of Senate Bill 1028 now rests in the hands of the state Senate, which is expected to vote on the measure in the coming days. If the amendment receives the necessary approval, it will then be put to a statewide referendum in the fall, where voters will have the final say on whether to legalize the proposed changes to the state’s gambling laws.
