Pennsylvania’s gaming landscape has recently faced scrutiny as instances of underage individuals accessing casino gaming floors and adults leaving minors unattended to gamble have come to light. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has taken decisive action to address these concerns, highlighting the dangers posed to children and the consequences for irresponsible adults.
Incidents of Underage Access:
The PGCB has fined Wind Creek Bethlehem $125,000 for 10 incidents of underage individuals, aged 18-20, accessing the casino’s gaming floor over a 20-month period. This underscores the need for stringent measures to prevent underage gambling and ensure compliance with regulations.
Consequences for Irresponsible Adults:
In addition to addressing underage access, the PGCB has taken action against adults who endanger minors by leaving them unattended while gambling. For instance, a couple was placed on the Involuntary Exclusion List after leaving a 5-month-old child unattended in a running vehicle for 30 minutes at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack. Similarly, a woman’s request to be removed from the Involuntary Exclusion List was denied after she left a 4-year-old child unattended in a non-running vehicle for 15 minutes at Rivers Philadelphia Casino in 2017. These cases highlight the potential legal and regulatory consequences for individuals who prioritize gambling over the safety of minors.
PGCB’s Awareness Campaign:
To address these issues, the PGCB has launched an awareness campaign titled “Don’t Gamble with Kids.” This initiative aims to educate the public about the dangers of leaving minors unattended at casinos and the potential consequences for both children and adults. By raising awareness, the PGCB seeks to prevent future incidents and promote responsible gambling practices.
Enforcement and Compliance:
The PGCB’s enforcement actions demonstrate its commitment to upholding regulations and ensuring compliance within the gaming industry. By imposing fines and placing individuals on exclusion lists, the PGCB sends a clear message that violations will not be tolerated. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining the integrity of Pennsylvania’s gaming establishments and protecting vulnerable populations.
The PGCB’s recent actions underscore the importance of addressing underage access and child endangerment in Pennsylvania casinos. Through fines, exclusion lists, and awareness campaigns, the PGCB seeks to promote responsible gambling and protect minors from harm. Moving forward, continued vigilance and enforcement efforts will be crucial for maintaining a safe and secure gaming environment for all patrons.