Gov. Rendell: The legislature should reject a different tax rate for “skill games”
STOP GAMING EXPANSION
Some lawmakers want to add up to 85,000 illegal slot machines (some called “skill games”, others called “VGTs”) to every PA community; in places where our kids gather. It’s a reckless proposal that would hurt kids, seniors, and communities.
OUR COMMUNITIES
Leaders of our state’s minority communities are opposing these proposals, noting that “This is the type of reckless gambling expansion that historically hurts poor and largely minority communities.” And “Regardless of your stance on gambling in general, there is no doubt that video gambling terminals, or VGTs as they are so quaintly called, are predatory against low-income and minority communities.”
STATE REVENUES
Lawmakers also want to add thousands of new illegal slot machines to PA. Expansion would cost the state nearly $600 million a year for programs supporting older Pennsylvanians.
OUR CHILDREN
The PA State Police have told lawmakers that “These gambling devices remain unregulated and unmonitored” and that “There are no safeguards to prevent minors from gambling such as within our existing licensed casinos.” Illegal slot machines hurt kids. It's simple.
PA LOTTERY
The Pennsylvania Lottery has testified that illegal slot machines have drained more than $500 million from lottery programs like Meals on Wheels and prescription drug assistance for seniors. Click here to see a county by county impact.