The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has recently approved several consent agreements, resulting in substantial fines for two gaming operators. Mount Airy #1 LLC, the operator of Mount Airy Casino Resort, faced fines of $160,000 and $100,825 for violations related to underage gambling and licensing issues. Additionally, Pilot Travel Centers LLC and PJF Southeast LLC, operators of Video Gaming Terminal (VGT) establishments, were fined $20,000 for failing to notify the PGCB about a change in control of their licenses. Despite these fines, Pennsylvania’s gaming revenue continued to surge, reaching an impressive $425.3 million in August, indicating the industry’s resilience and popularity.
Fines Imposed on Mount Airy #1 LLC:
Mount Airy #1 LLC, the operator of Mount Airy Casino Resort in Monroe County, faced significant fines due to multiple violations. The larger sum of $160,000 was imposed for three instances of underage individuals gaining access to the casino floor and engaging in gambling activities. Shockingly, an 18-year-old male managed to gamble at two slot machines, while an 11-year-old girl gambled at an astonishing ten slot machines, with both parents present, and even cashed out two vouchers. Additionally, two 13-year-old girls were found gambling at slot machines, accompanied by their mother. Such breaches of the legal gambling age of 21 led to severe repercussions for the casino operator.
Furthermore, Mount Airy #1 LLC incurred a fine of $100,825 for its failure to file 32 corporate or individual renewal applications within the statutorily mandated due dates. This neglectful oversight also resulted in one individual losing their re-licensing, which was a condition mandated for the company’s slot machine license. The PGCB takes licensing requirements seriously to maintain the integrity and responsibility within the gaming industry.
Fines for Pilot Travel Center LLC and PFJ Southeast LLC:
Pilot Travel Center LLC and PFJ Southeast LLC, operators of two Video Gaming Terminal (VGT) establishments, were subjected to a fine of $20,000. This penalty arose from their failure to notify the PGCB about a change in control of their VGT establishment license and their lack of a principal owner license. These licenses are essential for ensuring transparency and accountability within the gaming sector. Both companies, which collectively operate ten VGTs, must comply with regulatory guidelines to maintain a fair and secure gaming environment.
Robust Gaming Revenue in August:
Despite the fines and challenges faced by some operators, Pennsylvania’s gaming revenue in August demonstrated a remarkable growth of 4.2% compared to the previous year, reaching an impressive $425.3 million. The revenue from regulated gaming and fantasy contests showcases the industry’s strong performance and popularity among players.
In a breakdown of the revenue, retail slots experienced a minor decline of 4%, generating $201.2 million. Similarly, retail table games revenue witnessed a decrease of 9%, amounting to $78.4 million. However, the online gaming sector saw a substantial increase of 20.8%, bringing in $107.1 million in revenue. Leading the online gaming pack was Hollywood Casino at Penn National, which generated $43.9 million, followed closely by Rivers Casino Philadelphia at $26.8 million and Valley Forge Casino Resort at $17.7 million. The tax revenue generated from online gaming during August was an impressive $45.9 million.
Another noteworthy aspect of Pennsylvania’s gaming revenue was the significant growth in sports betting. The handle for sports betting stood at $336 million, marking a 4.1% increase compared to August 2021’s figures of $348.5 million. Taxable revenue from sports betting experienced a remarkable surge of 88.5%, amounting to $33.9 million, compared to $18 million in August 2021.
Despite the challenges faced by certain gaming operators and the need for stringent regulatory measures to ensure compliance, Pennsylvania’s gaming industry has shown resilience and strength. The fines imposed by the PGCB emphasize the importance of maintaining strict adherence to rules and regulations to safeguard players and the integrity of the gaming sector. Additionally, the robust gaming revenue in August highlights the enduring popularity and economic significance of the gaming industry in Pennsylvania. As the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board continues its efforts to uphold industry standards, the future of gaming in the state appears promising and dynamic.