Bill could bring video gambling to bars, bowling alleys – WFMZ Allentown

Bill could bring video gambling to...

Video gambling machines could soon be showing up at bars, bowling alleys and social clubs.

A new bill in Harrisburg would also legalize and regulate games that are being operated illegally now.

Lawmakers say there are roughly 15,000 illegal gambling machines across Pennsylvania, and the state is losing out on millions of dollars.

But, not everyone thinks the bill is a safe bet.

Eleanor Ruppert spends every Tuesday at the Haja Rose Bowl in Allentown.

"It all depends on the alley conditions," said Ruppert. "There's a little luck too."

Owner Jim Haja has his fingers crossed that soon his bowling alley will be filled with luck from video gambling machines.

He is already making enough from lottery tickets and scratchers to make a payment on his roomba-like lane cleaner.

Now, Pennsylvania legislators are considering allowing private clubs, bars, and bowling alleys, like the Rose Bowl, to have video gambling.

Senator Lisa Boscola said it's an activity that's already going on in backrooms and basements at establishments across the Lehigh Valley.

"In my opinion, they are not criminal and we shouldn't make them criminal, we should legalize them." said Boscola.

Boscola said the revenue would benefit state emergency services, opiod treatment and gambling addiction.

"I think that the state senator that is proposing this bill should go to the Gambling Anonymous rooms and see how badly gambling is destroying families," said George M., who is a Gambling Anonymous Group leader.

He said after the casinos opened, attendance at the meetings doubled. He said he fears what will happen if the bill passes and video gambling is more accessible.

Boscola said the bills would limit bars and clubs to five machines with a $5 maximum bet and a $1,000 daily limit.

Rest stops are also included in the bill, but they would be allowed 10 machines.

Boscola said this is just part of an overall gaming bill that will come out with the budget in June. She said there is also talk of online gaming in the state.

In the meantime, George M. said he is just waiting to see what happens.

He says anyone with a gambling problem can contact Gamblers Anonymous at 610-770-9588 or 888-442-7085.

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Bill could bring video gambling to bars, bowling alleys - WFMZ Allentown