The new law proposes a nominal reduction of the overall slot machine count that could prove all that businesses need to stay operational and competitive
A bill in Pennsylvania would make it easier for physical casinos to open doors or make changes to their existing layouts. The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 666, backed by Senator Dan Laughlin, would remove the requirement that Category 1 and Category 2 casinos have at least 1,500 slot machines on their gaming floors to enter business.
Slot Machine Numbers in Pennsylvania Are Trouble for Bigger Casinos
The rule has long been seen as favoring established companies, while ostracizing smaller companies. Should Senate Bill 666 pass, it would allow casinos to adjust how many slot machines they have on their gaming floor and also make it possible for existing casinos to further scale down the number of slot machines. Laughlin has spoken about this situation and said:
“Competition is fierce, and rigid mandates no longer serve the industry or the public. This bill is about common sense and keeping our casinos competitive without sacrificing oversight or
revenue,” said Laughlin. “It gives our gaming industry the flexibility it needs to succeed in today’s market while preserving accountability and protecting public interests.”Sen. Dan Laughlin
The bill suggests a 2% reduction in the total unit count, which would still have to be approved by the Keystone State regulator, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The measure is also looking to address current issues in the market, as some operators have been fined for running a smaller number of slot machines already, and fined because of.
Businesses Already Face Potential Shut-Downs and Fines
At the end of April, the Presque Isle Downs & Casino said that it could be looking at a closure, and that not meeting the slot machine count could be partially to blame. The casino was fined back in 2024, because it was not running the required number of machines – 1,500 units.
Senate Bill 666 still has a long way to go, and it will be heading for full Senate consideration in the coming days and weeks, and then have to move through the House of Representatives.
On the flipside, Gov. Joseph Shapiro has presented himself to be open-minded enough to back reasonable changes in the Keystone State’s gambling industry and laws. Senate Bill 666 – should it hit his desk – may be no exception.
