Pennsylvania residents benefit greatly by having casinos in the state. Per reports from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control, for every $1 bet on a slot machine, 55 cents of that bet goes directly to the state. This money helps improve the economy, provide towns with revenue, and reduce school and property taxes for all homeowners. In 2011, the revenue brought in by casinos helped eliminate school taxes for thousands of Pennsylvania's senior citizens. It also reduced homeowners property tax bills by an average of $200 a year.
Casinos with racetracks also help fund equine breeding programs throughout the state.
Casinos in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Gaming Control regulates casinos in PA. Their goal is to make sure gaming is fun, fair, and law-abiding. As of July 2013, the state has eleven casinos.
Each of these casinos must follow the regulations set forth by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control. Enjoy gambling in Pennsylvania's casinos by knowing a little about these rules and regulations.
Rules and Regulations
One of the most important things to know about the state's casinos is that you must be 21 or older in order to enter the casino and play the games. Because it is legal for an 18 year old to purchase lottery tickets, this is often a source of confusion. You do have to be 21 to enter a casino though and photo ID may be required before you're allowed to enter.
Casino owners must register their casino and games with the state. They are not allowed to operate until they have a permit. This entails licensing fees, background checks, and inspections that make sure the games are not rigged. In addition, the manufacturers of the games must also be licensed with the state.
In Pennsylvania, casino staff can bar certain people from entering casinos, even if they are of legal age. Known offenders, including ex-cons and those who've been caught cheating, who may be a threat to the casino or people within the casino can be barred. In addition, family and friends of those people may also be banned.
Pennsylvania's casinos must present regular reports of earnings to the state. In addition, they must comply with inspection procedures that test the accuracy and fairness of all electronic casino games, roulette wheels, and other mechanical equipment. Even the playing cards used in Blackjack and poker are inspected before use.
The goal of the Gaming Control Board is to make sure that neither the player or the casino has an advantage. With these regulations in place, every player has the same chance at winning the jackpot.
