Rendell Says OK toTable Gambling for Pennsylvania Casinos

Governor Ed Rendell of Pennsylvania might not support bringing table games to state casinos, but he says he might not veto a law that proposes such a gambling expansion.

Governor Ed Rendell of Pennsylvania altered his stance slightly today, saying that he wouldn't necessarily veto a decision by legislators to legalize table gambling at state casinos. Rendell still stated he was opposed to the addition of blackjack and other table games, but indicated he might not stand in the way if lawmakers approve it.

Rendell had said he was against adding the games because the revenue derived would not significantly raise current state gambling income. He also says he thinks there should be a period of observation of current gaming operations before further expansion.

A bill proposing the legalization of table games has been introduced to the state legislature, and the measure has received bi-partisan support. Rendell has been a major advocate of slot machine gambling, but has only now begun to cede the possibility of table gaming.

“If the legislature sent it to me and it was the will of the legislature, would I consider signing it? I would consider signing it.," said Rendell.

Bill DeWeese, the state Representative responsible for the bill, says neither political party wants the burden of having to raise taxes, and more gambling helps avoid that. DeWeese thinks table games could account for as much as $300 million annually in state revenue.