House sets hearings on gaming reform

Harrisburg - The House Majority Policy Committee will hold two hearings this month to examine oversight of expanded gaming in the Commonwealth. Among the issues likely to be addressed during the hearings are increasing the authority of the state Attorney General and State Police over the gaming industry and ensuring that board members and public officials have no financial interest in a gaming licensee, applicant or subsidiary. The “middleman” provision that requires Pennsylvania gaming facilities to purchase slot machines from in-state distributors will also be addressed. Gambling reform has been a top priority of many lawmakers since the governor vetoed their first effort at reform on Nov. 30, 2004. The hearings will be held on Monday, Sept. 18, at 1 p.m. and Tuesday, Sept. 19, at 10 a.m. in the House Majority Caucus Room at the State Capitol.