After reporting yesterday that online poker legislation was to be reviewed within the state of Pennsylvania in the near future, it actually happened that day. The House of Representatives met yesterday and voted on a plan to regulate online gaming within the state, only to reject the proposal with a vote of 107 to 81. However, the proposal should be reconsidered in the future.
Lawmakers were voting on legalizing online gaming as well as allowing video gaming terminals to be expanded. Both were shut down and it is unknown as to if online gaming will be considered by itself next time. During the hearing, sponsor of the bill Representative John Payne, stated that reforms to the casino gambling market of Pennsylvania are worth roughly $3 billion on an annual basis and are being debated as a way to fix a $50 billion pension problem.
Representative George Dunbar weighed in during the hearing, discussing how credit cards are being used to fund online accounts for gaming. Dunbar stated that he could easily go gamble online right now in the state, and that what the bill is providing is consumer protection. Payne reiterated Dunbar’s remarks, stating that his intent was to introduce an online gaming bill that would protect his children, grandchildren and compulsive gamers.
Payne also stated that if lawmaker were going to vote no, to do so without using the crutch that they are trying to protect people. The representative pointed out that there are protections in the amendment. Payne also stated that there have been 47 meetings taking place to discuss online gaming in less than two years. According to the representative, no one on the House floor can say that they need to wait for more information as there have been enough hearings.
The vote did not go in favor of the measure and Pennsylvanians will now have to wait and see when the subject is discussed again and if the bill will finally be able to make any headway.
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