Pennsylvanian Gaming Control Board to Resolve Issues Before Licensing Slots
It was already in July 2004 that state legislative officials and Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell authorized the installation of as many as 61,000 slot machines at 14 gaming facilities across the state, and created the Gaming Control Board to supervise the operation of slots in Pennsylvania. However, the board still has many hurdles to overcome before slots are actually operated.
Some industry experts maintain that the most significant delay in the issuance of slots operation licenses was caused by the board's indecisiveness over the licensing of slot machines providers. Initially, Democratic legislators wanted slots manufacturers to distribute the machines via in-state suppliers. Nowadays, a Democratic lawmaker wants suppliers to operate in certain regions of Pennsylvania. However, this suggestion has been opposed by a Republican lawmaker.
In fact, there is a range of problematic issues that must be resolved. For example, board members have to reach an agreement with the state police union over background checks on companies and individuals asking to partake in the Pennsylvanian slots industry. Also, Governor Rendell has to act on his promise to restore zoning power to the board. Ted Decker, chairman of the Pennsylvanian Gambling Regulatory Board was reported as saying that in case of further delay, he would be very disappointed.
