For some time in 2015, it seemed as though the state of Pennsylvania would be the next in line to legalize and regulate online poker gaming in the United States. However, after making progress over several months last year, legislation efforts stalled and online gambling was put on the back burner. HB 649 is a bill created by State Representative John Payne that remained active and it seems that now the bill is under consideration once again.
Yesterday, the Poker Players Alliance tweeted the following:
“Pennsylvania could act on iGaming as early as tomorrow! PLEASE make your voice heard in support ASAP!” Included in the Tweet was a link to information about legislation efforts in the state include contact info for lawmakers.
After the post was placed on Twitter, the office of Representative Payne confirmed that a vote may be taking place within the House rather than a committee vote. According to The Morning Call, HB 649 has been linked to the state budget along with pension reform. A report states that the voting calendar of the House reads that lawmakers are scheduled to take up a bill to change the state pension system for new hires, with another bill on the docket that would legalize online gambling and fantasy sports, at the same time placing slot machines in the airports. The calendar is subject to change.
Pennsylvania may be close to continuing a solid effort to become the next state to offer online gambling options. It will be interesting to watch this week if the vote takes place and if lawmakers will move the measure forward. It will still take some time to see online gaming come to fruition as the bill would have to reach the governor’s desk and be signed to become law. We will stay up to date on the latest news of Pennsylvania iGaming legislation and report as new information is released.
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