Legislators: gaming expansion discussions are premature

HARRISBURG n With only four of the 14 licensed slots facilities open and the fifth set to open next week, House Democrats are already calling for an expansion of gambling in Pennsylvania, a move Republicans say is premature. Pike County Rep. John Siptroth doesn’t agree. According to a statement from the Republican caucus, the Democrats’ plan would open slots parlors to table games such as blackjack, poker and roulette. “The proposed legislation would set a price of $10 million on a one-year table game license as well as tax table game revenue an additional 26 percent. Pointing to the infancy of this idea, proponents offer little information regarding how much revenue the state would receive. Opponents say that table games bring an added risk of creating addicts, as they tend to be marketed toward younger players.” A Siptroth spokesperson said Rep. Siptroth opposes expansion of gaming to table games and has publicly stated his position a number of times. He believes that expansion of gaming before the social impact of existing slots can be assessed is premature. State Rep. John Siptroth, D-189, doesn’t support expanding current gaming for now. “We are in no position to expand gaming facilities until they are all licensed and operational,” Siptroth said. “Then we can evaluate the social impact of gaming, including issues such as crime and gambling addiction, and see if the state is addressing the needs of those individuals affected.”