As Pennsylvania continues to grapple with the unregulated proliferation of skill gaming machines, it is long past time for the General Assembly to act. When these machines began appearing in candy stores near our schools in 2017, I recognized the need for regulation and began my efforts to address this issue.

Currently operating without oversight, these machines pose significant risks, including consumer fraud, lack of age restrictions, and potential links to criminal activity. At the same time, Pennsylvania is missing out on substantial revenue that could be used to support vital public services. By authorizing the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to license and regulate a limited number of these machines, we can ensure they are taxed fairly—comparable to casinos—while also implementing safeguards to protect our communities.

To address this problem, I intend to introduce legislation that strikes a balance—allowing small businesses, social clubs, and fraternal organizations that have benefited from these machines to continue doing so, while ensuring proper oversight and enforcement.

We can no longer afford to kick the can down the road. Regulation is necessary to protect consumers, prevent problem gaming, and ensure fairness in Pennsylvania’s gaming industry. I am hopeful that this legislation will provide a bipartisan solution to a longstanding problem.

Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation to bring accountability and fairness to skill gaming machines in Pennsylvania.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1260: 4-4102(b)(1), P.L.351, No.91