Expanded Pennsylvania Gambling Could Bring Thousands of Jobs
Governor Ed Rendell of Pennsylvania has been indifferent to table gaming, even though he has pushed major gambling expansions, because he says it wouldn't significantly affect revenue. While blackjack proponents say he's wrong about the tax, he certainly is missing the potential creation of jobs.
A study by the gaming industry says that allowing table games at state casinos would bring 2400 jobs just to the northeast portion of the state. The survey found that the Sands Casino at Bethlehem, Mount Airy Casino, and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs alone would add that number of new jobs, with 10,000 being added state wide.
Innovation Group said its study also showed the governor was short on earnings projections. Revenue would be expected to top $100 million annually, with upfront licensing fees and annual renewals as well.
State Representative Bill DeWeese has proposed a table gambling bill for casinos as a way to create tax relief. State Senator Robert Mellow says table gaming revenue is needed to protect other industries, including agriculture.
Still, the DeWeese bill has an uncertain future. Many lawmakers say there are overriding priorities, and consideration of table gambling would cost time that can't be spared. Rendell says he will consider signing a bill if it passes, but won't push for it.
