Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Fines 3 Operators in a Total of $67,500

PGCB has not released its firm grip on rule breakers in Pennsylvania; this time, the body okays three consent agreements presented to its Office of Enforcement Counsel during a public meeting on the violation that happened at casinos, a total of $67,500 fines were issued to the defaulting operators.

The OEC and Downs Racing, L.P., an operator of Mohegan, Pennsylvania, agreed that the company would pay a fine of $50,000 for granting access to individuals under the legal gambling age of 21 to play on the gaming floor. One of the individuals played multiple times, while the second gained access to the gaming floor and was served alcohol.

Holding Acquisition, L.P., another Rivers Casino operator in Pittsburg, also got a $10,000 fine for failing to uphold age restriction rules on its gambling floor.

The third defaulter is Sugarhouse HSP Gaming, L.P., An operator of Rivers Casino Philadelphia, who got a $7500 ticket for letting an untrained and inexperienced employee deal roulette.

Copies of the approved consent agreements carrying more details about the matter are available on demand through PGCB’s Office of Communications.

The board also took action against seven adult defaulters, banning them from all casinos operating in the Commonwealth for negligence involving leaving minors unattended while they played on the gaming floor.

Details of the ban are listed below.

• A man and woman were placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List after they left a 9-year-old child unsupervised in a hotel at different times at the Mount Airy Casino Resort for about 7 hours 48 minutes over a two and half-day period to gamble.
• Another female was placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List as she left four children, all between the ages of 2-13, unattended in the vehicle parked in the River Casino Pittsburgh garage for about 40 minutes as she watched an acquaintance gamble in the casino.
•  A man was placed on the list as he left a 5-year-old child alone and unsupervised in a vehicle in Rivers Casino Philadelphia’s parking lot for about 35 minutes while he gambled in the sportsbook.
• An adult male got hit with the ban after leaving a 7-year-old child alone in a vehicle at the Parx Casino Bensalem’s parking lot for 23 minutes as she gambled in the sportsbook and at a slot machine.
• Another man was placed on the exclusion list as he carelessly left a 3-year-old child alone in a car in a Live! Philadelphia Hotel and Casino parking lot for 10 minutes and gambled the day off.
• The last man on the list got banned after he left an 11-month-old child unsupervised and unguarded in the parking lot of Rivers Casino Philadelphia for almost an hour (42 minutes) as he gambled at the table games.

The PGCB further reiterated their laws that adults should never be careless with their wards or minors, especially in hotels or casino venues, as it may expose them to different dangers.

“The Board’s actions serve as a reminder that adults are prohibited from leaving minors unattended in the parking lot or garage, a hotel, or other venues at a casino since it creates a potentially unsafe and dangerous environment for the children. Leaving minors unattended at a Pennsylvania casino also subjects the offending adult to criminal prosecution in addition to exclusion from all Pennsylvania casinos.” according to a news release by the board last week.

The Board confirms that since early 2022 through June 2023, about 400 incidents of unsupervised children have been recorded at casinos and gambling venues at Pennsylvania casinos, and about 633 minors have fallen victim to this offense.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has scheduled 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2023, is the next time for its next meeting at the Public Hearing Room situated on the second floor of the Strawberry Square Complex in Harrisburg.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board oversees every gambling activity in Pennsylvania, covering 17 land-based casinos, online casino games, Video Gaming Terminals at certified truck shops, retail, and online sports wagering, and the total regulation of online fantasy sports competitions.

The Board recorded over $2.3 billion in tax revenue during the 2022/2023 State Fiscal Year from casinos and other variants of Board-regulated gaming bodies.

Every casino company in Pennsylvania must be duly certified by the PGCB. Anything different means you’re dealing with an illegal outfit, committing a serious criminal offense that could lead to a jail term.

Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Reports Record Tax Revenue

June saw the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board announce record revenues from the gaming industry. The figures are a combined income from all legal gaming activities, including slot machines, table games, internet gaming, sports wagering, fantasy contests, and video gaming terminals (VGTs). According to the statement, gaming operators, including casinos and VGTs, made $440,491,675 in revenue for June 2023, which amounts to a 13% year-on-year increase.

The iGaming sector recorded $98,211,016 in revenue for June, 35.88% up from last year. On the tax front, the industry contributed $183,786,565 to government coffers for June 2023. June’s revenue breakdown showed the favorite gaming activities of PA residents. The table below shows the revenue recorded from each gaming sector in June.

Type of Gaming	Revenue Recorded
Retail Slots	$201,549,571
iGaming Slot	$98,211,016
Retail Tables	$76,204,262
iGaming Tables	$34,796,586
Sports Wagering	$23,060,076
Video Gaming Terminals	$3,392,483
iGaming Poker	$2,429,089
Fantasy Contests	$848,591
TOTAL	$440,491,675

Retail and iGaming slots contributed the lion’s share of the revenue, raking in a combined $299 million. These figures show that most gamers in the Keystone territory love playing slots. iGaming slots revenue jumped 35% from 2022’s $72 million, demonstrating the continued acceptance of the online gaming gospel among Pennsylvania residents.

Casinos were also huge beneficiaries, making substantial revenue gains from players. The top-performing PA Casino in June was the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course, making $72,548,381. The Casino’s success has been a long time coming, as it incorporates live horse racing with sports wagering, thousands of slot machines, and table games, including Poker, Black Jack, Roulette, Craps, Pai-Gow Poker, Mini-Baccarat, and Let-It-Ride.

Some of the top-performing casino operators in Pennsylvania are:

Casino	June Revenue
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course	$72,548,381
Parx Casino	$51,322,052
Valley Forge Casino Resort	$51,190,615
Rivers Casino Philadelphia	$46,563,014
Wind Creek Bethlehem	$43,450,430
Rivers Casino Pittsburgh	$28,202,578
Live! Casino Philadelphia	$23,757,873
Hollywood Casino at the Meadows	$23,016,355
Mohegan Pennsylvania	$19,715,995
Mount Airy Casino Resort	$19,697,185
Harrah’s Philadelphia	$18,993,550
Live! Casino Pittsburgh	$9,970,693

Lady Luck Casino Nemacolin continued to see dwindling figures, making only $1,816,589, while newcomer Bally’s Pennsylvania made an income of $449,549. In June, Lady Luck had cut ties with its former gaming partner, Churchill Downs, over its dwindling performance in the casino market, opting to self-manage its services.

Online Gambling Revenue in Pennsylvania

Online gaming continues to shine, with PA casino lovers taking advantage of the convenience and accessibility offered by these operators. The sector contributed $135,436,692 in June alone, representing an increase of 31% over May’s numbers. The top PA online casinos in gaming revenue are

Casino	Total iGaming Revenue
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course	$57,836,842
Valley Forge Casino Resort	$28,080,543
Rivers Casino Philadelphia	$26,997,969
Harrah’s Philadelphia	$5,951,032
Parx Casino	$4,685,689
Live! Casino Philadelphia	$3,889,265
Mount Airy Casino Resort	$3,540,194
Mohegan Pennsylvania	$2,186,771
Wind Creek Bethlehem	$1,818,838
Bally’s Pennsylvania	$449,549
TOTAL	$135,436,692

The total tax revenue generated from iGaming platforms alone is $58,978,095, while the total tax revenue from all PA gaming activities for June is $183,786,565. The iGaming sector’s successes are unsurprising, as it led all gaming activities in revenue for the 2022/23 fiscal year, bringing in over a billion ($1,532,761,065).

Overall, the gaming sector remains a great source of income for the government. By the 2022/23 fiscal year reports, which saw over $2 billion go into the government coffers in taxes, PA residents can heave a sigh of relief for economic budgets.

However, there is also the concern that Pennsylvania gamers are spending lots of money on gambling. The government may need to deploy more responsible gaming measures to ensure a win-win effect. These measures include more awareness of problem gambling, addiction, and the importance of setting deposit limits when gaming. As summer rolls along, it will be interesting to see what financial contributions and improvements the sector makes.

PA Gaming Control Board Self Exclusion gets a Touchup

In a recent press release, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board unveiled a new self-exclusion portal to enhance responsible gambling in the state. According to the release, the online portal was redesigned to improve user-friendliness and make it easier for problem gamblers to access the help they need. This redesign was necessary as the Self-Exclusion program was initially limited to land-based casinos. However, the new forms of gaming allowed by 2017’s Gaming Expansion Act meant a broader gaming database, temptations, and increased problem gambling.

 The new portal is more streamlined, allowing you to choose what type of self-exclusion help you need from the following categories:

• Casinos
• Interactive Gambling, including online sports betting
• Video Gaming Terminals
• Fantasy Contests

The beauty of this is that it allows players to address their specific gambling problems rather than issuing a blanket ban on all gambling activities. For instance, given smartphones’ widespread ownership and availability, most players patronize PA online casinos rather than their land-based counterparts. Consequently, since it is their Achilles heel, iGaming players battling problem gambling may exclude themselves from online casinos, sports betting, and mobile gaming activities.

The portal allows you to do the following:

• enroll in one, several, or all self-exclusion programs;
• request removal from the casino self-exclusion program;
• extend the period of their self-exclusion ban period;
• view your self-exclusion documents and status in real time;
• update your personal information (i.e., name change/address change); and,
• access links to gambling disorder information and the helpline.

Enrolling on the portal is straightforward and can be completed using a smartphone. The requirements for enrollment are a valid government-issued ID, a selfie, and a Lexis Nexis verification. Excluding yourself gives you the freedom to choose the length of your exclusion period and when to return.

The Self Exclusion online portal also provides detailed guides on enrolling and opting out of the self-exclusion service. Most importantly, the portal includes a list of gambling resources to help players identify if they have a gambling problem and guide them through recovery where necessary. Users can also find guides and explainers in the frequently asked questions (FAQs) section on the website or reach out to the support team through www.ResponsiblePlay.pa.gov, or call 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or chat through http://www.1800gamblerchat.org/.

In addition to the online portal, PA casino lovers experiencing gambling addictions can also enroll in the exclusion program by scheduling an appointment at the PGCB office or contacting the Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling at 717-346-8300 or emailing [email protected].

Partnering With Gaming Platforms to Fight Problem Gambling

Allowing users to exclude themselves from gambling when it stops being fun is one of the ways the PGCB ensures a safe and entertaining industry. The gaming authority also partners with casino operators through its Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling (OCPG). The partnership between OCPG and casinos mandates all operators to have comprehensive plans for addressing problem gambling. These plans must be approved by the OCPG and detail the following:

1. the training of casino and online operator employees on the signs and  symptoms of gambling disorder and responsible gaming programs;
2. policies and procedures on identifying those with potential harmful behavior  and the identification and removal of underage, self-excluded, and excluded  individuals who have engaged in gaming activities;
3. responsible advertising policies;
4. the casino and online operator’s participation in outreach programs.

Other problem gambling initiatives by the OCPG include the “What’s Really at Stake” and “Don’t Gamble With Kids” campaigns, which seek to educate the public on the health and social disadvantages of not gambling responsibly. Online gaming platforms also provide players with alternative options, such as limiting their deposits, wagers, and the time spent playing online. A dedicated self-exclusion portal demonstrates the PGCB’s commitment to enthroning responsible gaming in Pennsylvania while ensuring players needing help can access it.

Violating the terms of your exclusion exposes you to several punitive measures, such as confiscation of your winnings, criminal trespass charges, and being placed on the involuntary list. These measures help to keep you in check and ensure you achieve your goals. As the gaming world gets more engaging, deploying security and risk-limiting measures is essential to keep us in control of our funds and time.

Lady Luck Casino Commences Operations Under a New Management Following Exit From Churchill Downs Incorporated

Lady Luck Casino Nemacolin has stepped out of its partnership with Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) and will not renew. Instead, Woodlands Fayette LLC will now be stepping up as the new partner.

Lady Luck has sold all of the assets controlled by CDI to Woodlands Fayette and also got another five years renewal from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for the Category 3 resort casino license.

Initially, the license renewal was on shaky grounds as Lady Luck experienced a significant gross revenue crisis that spanned over seven years. In 2015, the company peaked at $35.2 million in revenue, after which a steady decline began.

A Closer Look at Lady Luck’s Revenue

• $32.2 million (2018)
• $32.9 million (2019)
• $20.2 million (2020)
• $23.7 million (2021)
• $22.2 million (2022)

The casino recorded $8.1 million in revenue through May 2023 and totaled just $22.2 million last year. The first 11 months of the fiscal year 2022-2023 saw Lady Luck generating just $9.2 million in tax revenue for the Keystone State. Since officially entering the market in 2013, Lady Luck has gathered over $289 million in gross income from slot machines and table games and over $140 million in tax revenue.

While Lady Luck has created impressive profits for Hardy, she hopes to make a significant financial turnaround with this new joint. The casino has a staff of 167 people, over 500 slot machines, and 26 table games.

About the License Renewal Hearing

Reps from the casino intimated to the public about the new plans and direction for the casino at the license renewal hearing. The hearing was held at the resort’s premises, and Lady Luck personnel submitted exhibits and presented testimony on various aspects of the resort’s operation since its last renewal.

The board also got information from local elected officials, community groups, law enforcement, and other state agencies. The follow-up hearing was held on Wednesday in Harrisburg before the board approved the license renewal.

A System Overhaul

Their new development plan includes a strategic redirection to transform Lady Luck into a promising and profitable operation. Other projects include a high roller area, a change to the gaming floor, and an entrance aesthetics upgrade.

Of course, Woodlands Fayette isn’t doing this alone. The network is partnering with RRC Gaming Management, a consulting firm based in Las Vegas, to help bring their aesthetics dream to life.

Woodlands Fayette, LLC is Hardy’s company, and they operate the Nemacolin Resort. This move is to attract new customers, keep old ones, and create an attractive environment for guests to ensure a premium resort experience.

A Little Piece of History

Lady Luck operates out of Nemacolin, a luxury resort in Western Pennsylvania. The resort was established by 84 Lumber businessman Joseph Hardy, covering over 2,000 acres, and is now managed by Maggie Hardy, who took over in 2002.

She partnered with Isle of Capri Casino to operate Lady Luck in 2013 after Churchill Downs took over in 2019 following the acquisition of Isele of Capri Casino by Eldorado Resorts as part of its plans to merge with Caesars Entertainment.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board monitors and certifies everything gambling involving 17 land-based casinos, online casino games, online sports wagering, and retail and Video Gaming Terminals (VGTs) at certified truck stops.

They also regulate online fantasy sports contests. There are six racetracks (Category 1) land-based casino industry in Pennsylvania, five independent casinos (Category 2), two resort (Category 3) casinos, and four mini-casinos (Category 4).

The board consists of seven voting members, three of whom the Governor appoints. The President pro tempore of the Senate, Minority Leader of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Minority Leader of the House of Representatives make one appointment each.

The board’s primary function is to award licenses and ensure a fair gambling environment. The board makes decisions by a substantial majority, i.e., one of the gubernatorial appointments, and four legislative appointees must approve the issuance of each license.

Limitations Imposed on Casino Operators

Gambling laws in Pennsylvania state that a player must be 21 years old and above. Land-based and online casinos must make information available about problem gambling to raise awareness of addiction.

Casino houses/platforms must also make corresponding hotline phone numbers available for professional help. Players in Pennsylvania must be within the state borders to access online casinos. In the case of defaulters, the state uses geo-fencing technology to ensure all loose ends are tied up.

All is Set as Golden Nugget Gets the PGCB Stamp of Approval to Begin Operations in Pennsylvania

Another major player has emerged in the Pennsylvania gaming industry. Golden Nugget Casino has finally gotten the stamp of approval from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) to launch and fully begin operations as a Pennsylvania online casino platform.

The final process went down at the meeting between Golden Nugget and PGCB on Wednesday. Golden Nugget Casino is expected to hit the ground running in the coming months.

We’re optimistic that this brand will bring the necessary upgrade to the Pennsylvanian casino scene. Even though it’s entering a pretty saturated market, the chances of success are huge.

Details Of The Meet

The PGCB board, in its meeting, passed a vote to grant Golden Nugget’s online casino plea. The company applied as a Qualified Gaming Entity (QGE) way back on October 26, 2022, and it currently doesn’t have a land-based casino partner in Pennsylvania.

Doug Harbach, the communications director at PGCB, updated new outlets about Golden Nugget’s next steps.

“The petition approved today conditioned the licensure of Golden Nugget Online Gaming. So, they will not be able to go live until after we license both the company and its principals at an upcoming meeting. As was mentioned in this meeting, the target is to have those in front of the Board in the next month or two.”

Golden Nugget splurged $8 million on their application for two certificates- online slots and table games.

What’s in it For Pennsylvania Players

Golden Nugget’s emergence on the scene sure comes with many goodies, including amazing games and special promotions. Check the list below.

• The Super Sidekicks game lets you receive $500 in bonuses when the people you refer to Golden Nuggets sign up and start playing their games to win real money.
• Stand a chance to win one of 600 weekly prizes available to players in the Level Up game. However, you can only gather points and increase your chances of winning prizes by playing games.
• Sign up for a Play+ Prepaid card to receive a $10 casino bonus after your first deposit on the juicy Play+  bonus offer.

The platform has over 500 games, with 400 of them being slots. Some popular slot games include Cleopatra, Da Vinci Diamonds, Gonzo’s Quest, and Blood Suckers.

A Sea of Competitors

It’s undoubtedly not child’s play for GoldenNugget as the brand is entering a market filled with hardworking and innovative competitors. There’re even predictions that the brand may launch alongside multiple online casino platforms.

Fanatics Casino is among the lineup. The sports merchandise company successfully bought PointBet’s US assets in late June, outbidding Golden Nuggets’ principal company DraftKings, to clinch the assets.

Bally Casino also recently launched the brand earlier this month in Pennsylvania. Other online casino gamers should look forward to include WynnBet Casino and bet365 Casino. All we know is the casino scene in Pennsylvania will be buzzing through the second quarter of the year.

However, Golden Nugget won’t be in the dark for too long due to its already-established brand recognition, especially its famous casino in Las Vegas. This feat alone will help capture new customers in the Keystone State.

Golden Nugget Casino and Revenue Development in Pennsylvania

Golden Nugget’s licensing will also contribute more to the fat purse of the Pennsylvanian casino sphere. Although the brand already has retail spots in Atlantic City and New Jersey, its move to the Keystone State was much-needed.

The genius move of proceeding to do this helped generate revenue for the brand. Just last May, Golden Nugget generated a whopping $6.9 million in revenue, finishing fifth just behind BetMGM, BetRivers, FanDuel, and DraftKings.

Let’s run you by some huge numbers that the Keystone state has worked with, according to US iGaming records.

• October 2022: $151.7 million
• November 2022: $155.9 million
• December 2022: $166.9 million
• January 2023: $160.3 million
• February 2023: $162.3 million
• March 2023: $181.5 million
• April 2023: $167.2 million
• May 2023: $170.4 million

Experts have devised two ways Golden Nugget may likely generate revenue from a Pennsylvania online casino. However, it may take a while before the company gets a hold of its revenue generation due to its fresh arrival.

On a short-term basis, Golden Nuggets may generate less than $10 million in revenue for its first few months on the market. After six months, the company is projected to pull in $10 million monthly, tailing behind the big leagues like Hollywood Casino, Valley Forge, and Rivers.

Navigating Pennsylvania’s Responsible Gaming Landscape

Pennsylvania’s gaming landscape is one of the most regulated gaming sectors in the United States. From ensuring fair and unbiased gaming platforms to player education and gambling support, Pennsylvania’s Gaming Control Board (PGCB) leads the responsible gaming charge in the Keystone State.

Responsible gaming refers to policies and principles that aim to bring gambling as a form of entertainment within a controlled environment to prevent its negative consequences, such as addiction, bankruptcy, and fraud. Responsible gaming principles are sometimes contained in laws and implemented by regulatory authorities such as the PGCB.

Some of these principles include:

• Setting Limits: Limiting the time spent playing casino games online is advisable to avoid addiction and excessive gambling. Spending too much time gaming may reduce work productivity, family time, and overall efficiency. It is also advisable to set budget limits and avoid exceeding them to maintain a healthy gaming lifestyle and avoid debts. Failure to set and stick to a gambling budget often leads to financial mismanagement and worries.
• Self-Exclusion: This connotes restricting yourself from gaming platforms for some time. Many PA online casinos now have self-exclusion features that enable you to exclude yourself from receiving or accessing gambling services voluntarily. This can be useful if you have problems limiting time or money spent on gambling.
• Educating Players: This principle emphasizes the importance of educating players on the risks of addiction and problem gambling, intending to reduce these negative consequences in society.
• Prohibition of underage gambling: Minors should not be exposed to gambling activities until they are old or mature enough to understand its risks. This is why casinos and sportsbooks require you to state your age before accessing their websites.
• Fairness and Transparency: It is essential that gaming operators and manufacturers only offer unbiased and fair games to the public. The PGCB requires randomized number generators and independent audits to verify fairness before games are provided to the public.

Responsible Gaming in Practice

The principles of responsible gaming seem to yield fruits in Pennsylvania, with many players taking advantage of innovative solutions to combat problem gambling—these range from self-reporting requests to whistleblowing non-compliant organizations, among others.

1. PA Gaming Control Board Receives 20,000 Enrollment Requests For Its Casino Self-exclusion Program:

According to a PGCB press statement, the regulatory body received its 20,000th enrollment request for its casino self-exclusion program. The Casino Self-Exclusion Program was launched in 2006 to help players exclude themselves from casino services to reduce the effects of problem gambling. A player may request exclusion from casino services, including wagers, cashing, and other complimentary services, for a period ranging between one to five years or even a lifetime. The Program also informs players that they may be charged with criminal trespass should they enter a casino within such period and any winnings confiscated by the PGCB. The Director of the Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling (OCPG), Elizabeth Lanza, has commended the Self Exclusion Program, saying it is an effective and proven tool that allows individuals to regain control over their lives.

2. PA Gaming Control Board Levies $48,000 In Fines: 

In addition to the self-exclusion program, the PGCB also oversees gaming operators and casinos. Earlier this month, the regulatory body fined Chester Downs and Marina, LLC, which runs the Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack, $35,000 for allowing underaged persons access to its gaming services and accepting their wagers. The Board also fined SportsHub PA. LLC, a licensed Fantasy Contest Operator, $13,000 for changing ownership and control of its license without Board approval. PGCB also regulates software manufacturers to protect consumers and ensure fair gaming in the keystone state by requiring randomized number generators in gaming mechanics.

3. Involuntary Exclusion:

The PA number one gaming body also has stringent measures to deal with deviant players. The involuntary exclusion system bars persons who repeatedly break responsible gaming laws or expose minors to gambling environments from entering or playing games at all Pennsylvania casinos. In its latest decision, seven persons were placed on the involuntary exclusion list for leaving minors between the ages of 14 months and 11 years unattended for several minutes to gamble. PA’s gaming laws frown at exposing or leaving children unattended in casino areas as it represents a potentially unsafe and dangerous environment for kids. Individuals found guilty of this act are placed on the Involuntary Exclusion list and liable to face criminal prosecution.

It is important to note that these practical measures apply to online and land-based casinos. According to Elizabeth Lanza, the individuals in the Casino Self Exclusion Program participate in online gaming, Video Gaming Terminals, Stop Trucks, and sports wagering activities.

Inside the New Partnership between DWG and Rush Street Interactive for Pennsylvania Gaming Rooms

Good news for Pennsylvania online gamers as award-winning iGaming software development studio Design Works Gaming (DWG) partnered with renowned online gaming operator Rush Street Interactive to announce a new regulated market entry.

More details from the move revealed that gamers on BetRivers Pennsylvania (an RSI subsidiary) would have unrestricted access to the contents of DWG and, in turn, widen the reach of RSI in the online gaming community.

This new deal also means a new expansion phase for Design Works Gaming deep into provinces and capitals in the US, especially after their recent adventure into Michigan and New Jersey.

Rush Street Interactive also proves to be the best partner as the network is currently running in all the legal game houses in the US through online casinos and sports betting products.

DWG’s arrival on the scene means they’ve done due diligence on the crazy potential for their growth in the Pennsylvania market, especially with a household name like RSI on the project. Talk about a round peg in a round hole.

Troy Zurawski, who is the CEO and founder of DWG, had this to say:

“Partnering with RSI, a well-respected and leading gaming operator in this state, we recognize the immense potential that Pennsylvania holds, and we are poised to make a lasting impact. With the incredible partnership we’ve already built with RSI in Michigan and New Jersey, together we will push the boundaries of innovation and deliver the excitement that Pennsylvania players crave.”

DWG and BetRivers

Being the first operator under the RSI network, BetRivers is home to DWG’s game and will give BetRivers’ players firsthand experience of an exclusive premiere, as well as slots and LuckyTap games.

Blockbuster games like Test Your Strength LuckyTap and Molten Hot 7s are exclusively available to BetRivers players via Light and Wonder’s OpenGaming channel. Players should expect more titles in the coming month and installments.

According to the CEO of Rush Street Interactive, Richard Schwartz, the collaboration is a step in the right direction.

“RSI is pleased to expand our partnership with DWG. Since we have previously launched these games at BetRivers in Michigan and New Jersey, we are confident that our players at BetRivers in Pennsylvania will also enjoy playing the exciting titles.”

Quality Assured

Pennsylvania players should be assured that DWG’s reputation for providing quality services and games remains intact with this new project. Their hit series Break the Bounty Lucky Tap bagged the Most Innovative Online Game award at the recently organized EKG Slot Awards in Las Vegas.

This recognition set RSI on the path to a successful expansion program, not only in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey but in more states as well.

 Zurawski added:

“Our team has poured countless hours of hard work and expertise into understanding the intricacies of the Pennsylvania market, meticulously crafting our roadmaps to meet the specific needs and preferences of the BetRivers players in this dynamic region.”

DWG has also made games available to Mr. Green players in the United Kingdom following a successful and long-standing partnership with Williams Hill.

A Game of Wins & Losses

The online gaming industry has particularly enjoyed massive attention in Pennsylvania and even ranked nine among the top 10 most gambling-addicted states, according to WMGK’s April 2023 survey.

Last year, the United States gambling industry recorded about $60 billion in revenue but experienced almost double losses at a whopping $100 billion annually. Nevada, South Dakota, and Montana are on the list of the most gambling-addicted states, with Pennsylvania.

In contrast, Alaska, Vermont, and Utah are on the least addicted list, with Utah having the lowest lottery sales per capita. Mississippi and Minnesota have the highest ratio of gambling addicts.

California, Delaware, and Nevada have the highest number of gambling-related arrests.

Tricks and Tips for Responsible Gambling

Now that you’re about to experience more next-level games courtesy of DWG, it’s important to reiterate the need for responsible gambling. These tips are PGCB tested and trusted.

• Always set a dollar limit and stick to it. This way, you only play with an amount you are willing and comfortable enough to lose.
• Gambling is 50/50. You must expect to either lose or win. However, the odds are likely higher to lose.
• Gambling should never mess with your quality time at work, with family, and with friends.
• Never try to recoup every loss. The more you try, the larger your debts become, the more addicted you’ll be.
• Never suffice gambling for therapy.
• Don’t borrow money to gamble.
• Lastly, don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you feel things are getting out of control.

Online Gambling in Pennsylvania: Six Years On

Since its legalization in 2017, the online gaming scene in Pennsylvania has continually defied the odds. While the Keystone State was a latecomer to the online casino industry, recent figures show the state seems to have caught on just fine. While gambling is not new to Pennsylvania residents, it wasn’t until the Truck Stop and Satellite Casino bill in 2017 that online casinos and sportsbooks were allowed to operate. The past six years show that legalization of the industry was the right move, ensuring Pennsylvania residents can enjoy their favorite games without fear of being scammed.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is responsible for licensing and regulating the online gaming industry. Asides from issuing licenses, the Board ensures compliance with industry standards and legal requirements to promote player safety and generates revenue for the government. As the legalization of the internet wagering industry approaches its sixth year, we look its impact on the Pennsylvania gaming scene.

Impacts of the Truck Stop and Satellite Casino Bill.

1. Safer Gambling environment for Pennsylvania residents. The regulation of the industry ensures only companies that meet the requirements for licensing can operate within the state. Players can also easily confirm the registration status of a gaming platform and avoid illegal or unregistered companies.
2. Increased revenue: The Pennsylvania gaming industry made headlines in March after receiving over $500,000,000 in monthly revenue. This figure represents an increase of 11% from March 2022’s income, showcasing the industry’s rapid growth. Of this amount, $140,000,000 was realized from internet casinos, with about $63,000,000 going to government coffers in tax. This has provided a much-needed boost to the state’s economy, budget, and planning. Funds realized from internet gaming are being channeled towards player protection programs, funding infrastructure, and the health and educational sectors, among others.
3. Regulation has also brought much-needed help for gambling problems. The PGCB mandates all licensed casinos to promote responsible gambling among users. As much as gambling can be fun, it may also lead to unwanted situations like depression, addiction, and bankruptcy. To help its residents, the PGCB has a self-exclusion program that allows you to exclude yourself from gambling online. All you have to do is visit the Board’s website and indicate your desire for professional help with gambling. Online casinos must also limit player deposits and wagers, as well as cooling-off periods to promote responsible gaming. Finally, the PGCB mandates licensed operators to train all employees on responsible gaming, ensuring they have the skill set to identify and provide solutions to problem gambling.
4. Increase in gaming platforms. Pennsylvania now has 17 iGaming platforms, promoting healthy competition among these companies. The multiplicity of gaming platforms ensures operators are on their toes to introduce new games, promotions, bonuses, and features that make the gambling process even more enjoyable for Pennsylvania gamers.
5. The Bill lists the online games allowed within Pennsylvania borders. Any casino desirous of offering online games to residents in the state must comply with this list. Some of the games on the list include online slots, table games, online poker, blackjack, and live dealer games.
6. Employment: Another major area in which Pennsylvania has benefited from online gambling is in job creation and employment. It takes lots of machines, customer support, software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity professionals, and programmers to ensure the smooth running of online casinos. Pennsylvania residents fill many of these roles, providing an opportunity for local talent to make a living.
7. Consumer Convenience: This is perhaps the area with the most direct impact on players. Gone are the days of physically going to a casino to play games. The Truck Stop and Satellite Casino bill now allows gaming operators to offer their services over the Internet. Consequently, many PA online casinos now have websites and applications allowing you to play from the comfort of your home.

In conclusion, the bill allowing truck stops and satellite casinos in Pennsylvania has significantly impacted the state’s online gaming scene. With more gaming options available, players now have greater opportunities to engage in online gambling. This expansion not only enhances accessibility to online gaming but also promotes the growth and sustainability of the industry in Pennsylvania. As the state’s gaming regulations continue to evolve, it is clear that the Truck Stop and Satellite Casino bill has played a crucial role in shaping the future of online gaming in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s Continued Push for Responsible Gambling

In a press statement released by the PA Gaming Control Board on the 24th of May, the regulatory body announced that it had fined a casino operator and gaming manufacturer licensee. According to PGCB, the fines were levied due to violations of license requirements. The total sum of the fines issued is $100,350. The statement also noted that the fines were a result of consent judgments entered between the PGCB’s Office of Enforcement Counsel and the violators.

In the first case, Mountainview Thoroughbred Racing Association, LLC, which operates Hollywood Casino York, was fined $78,000 for not meeting minimum security staffing requirements at its casino. The PGCB held that this violated its player protection and consumer safety guidelines. The other violator is a Table Game Manufacturing Company, TCS John Huxley America, Inc. and TCS John Huxley Europe, Ltd, fined for not filing Principal Licensing Applications. TCS John Huxley was fined $22,350.

These fines are a constant reminder to the public that gambling activities must be done within legal boundaries. While the fun and allure of winning real money from playing entertaining games is notable, breaking laws in pursuit of excitement is not excusable. The PGCB also announced an involuntary ban of five adults from casinos statewide. These bans relate to isolated cases of adults leaving kids unattended while playing games in a casino. The cases include:

1. A male and female patron were placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List after leaving five children, ages 2, 4, 5, 11, and 13, unattended in a vehicle in the Presque Isle Downs Casino & Racetrack parking lot for 35 minutes while they gambled on slot machines;
2. A male patron was placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List after leaving an 11-year-old child unattended in a vehicle in the parking garage of the Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia for 30 minutes while he gambled in the sportsbook;
3. A male patron was placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List after leaving a 10-year-old child unattended in a vehicle that he parked along a construction fence outside the valet area of the Rivers Casino Pittsburgh for 5 minutes while he gambled in the sportsbook;
4. A female patron was placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List after leaving two children, ages 8 and 9, unattended in a vehicle in the Mohegan Pennsylvania parking lot for 45 minutes while she gambled on slot machines.

The Board also heard an appeal by a Pennsylvania woman seeking to be removed from the Involuntary Exclusion List. The female patron was initially placed on the List after leaving her two daughters (aged 8 and 12) in the parking lot of Lady Luck Casino while gambling back in 2017. The appeal was refused, and the female patron remains banned from all PA casinos.

Since 2022, the PGCB has identified over 359 incidents of adults leaving children unattended to play games at a casino. These incidents involve more than 500 minors, showing a rising problem in responsible gaming. PGCB also informs the public that leaving minors unattended at PA casinos is a crime for which you can be prosecuted. The dangers of leaving children unattended in such spaces include:

• Being placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List
• Reports being made to the child welfare authorities
• Legal costs and litigation charges
• Child neglect

According to Kevin O’Toole, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, “The unfortunate frequency of these dangerous events has led the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to create Don’t Gamble with Kids. We also want the gaming public to understand the scope of this problem and if they see a child unattended in a parking lot, hotel, or elsewhere to report it to casino personnel or local authorities.”

It is clear that the fines handed down by the PA Gaming Control Board for leaving minors unattended in casino spaces reflect the importance of responsible gambling practices. These fines remind us that we must all be accountable for our actions and work towards creating a safe and secure gambling environment. Leaving minors unattended can have serious consequences, not just financially but also in terms of the potential harm and negative impact on the children involved. It is imperative that both gaming establishments and patrons prioritize responsible gambling and prioritize the protection of vulnerable individuals, especially minors, in the casino environment.

Opinion: Why the PGCB Ban on Four Individuals for Leaving Children unattended while gambling is A Justified Ban

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board recently banned four individuals from casinos in the state after they left their children unattended in vehicles while they were gambling inside the casino. The decision has led to some discussion regarding the PGCB overstepping its bounds. However, in this gambler’s opinion, the PGCB ‘s decision to ban these individuals is a justified ban, necessary to protect the safety and well-being of children.

Leaving Children Unattended in Vehicles is a Serious Offense

Starting with the basic of basics: leaving children unattended in vehicles is a serious offense that can result in mental and physical harm to the child. According to state law – anyone who leaves a child in an unattended vehicle is facing a misdemeanor. The PGCB ‘s decision to ban these individuals from casinos is just a logical extension of this law. By allowing these individuals to continue gambling, the PGCB would be condoning their irresponsible behavior and potentially putting more children at risk.

The PGCB Has a Responsibility to Regulate Casino Gambling and Maintain its Reputation

Furthermore, the PGCB has a responsibility to regulate casino gambling in the state and maintain its reputation as a safe and responsible activity. Allowing individuals who have shown a blatant disregard for the safety of their children to continue gambling undermines this reputation and could lead to increased scrutiny and criticism of the industry. By taking a strong stance against this behavior, the PGCB is sending a message that irresponsible gambling behavior will not be tolerated.

The PGCB’s Decision to Ban These Individuals is Not an Infringement on Their Rights

This message is easily understood when realizing that the PGCB’s decision to ban these individuals is not due to an isolated incident. Gambles who neglect their kids for a short hour have become a widespread problem in recent years that needs to be addressed, and the PGCB’s decision to ban these individuals is a step in the right direction and a clear message for gamblers to be accountable for their actions. On top of the ban the PGCB also initiated a “Don’t gamble with kids” campaign to emphasize that message and to prove their commitment to the community well being.

As mentioned above, leaving children unattended can also lead to long-lasting psychological effects. This type of neglect can lead to feelings of abandonment, trauma and might affect development and future relationships neglected children. By banning these individuals from casinos, the PGCB is taking a proactive step to protect the well-being of these children and are showing how serious they are about it.