Tom Wolf, the Governor of Pennsylvania has taken a momentous step and has signed a legislation that will lead to a huge expansion in gambling.
The proposal hit the Governor’s desk only a few days back and was signed virtually immediately.
The main reason behind this development, is the state lawmakers frantic attempt to plug the $2.2 billion budget deficit.
The supporters of this expansion believe that the new legislation will bring an extra $200 million annually to state coffers in the form of taxes and licensing fees.
Pennsylvania is no pushover when it comes to gambling as they surpass New Jersey and are considered as the second most casino-friendly state, right behind Nevada.
They will now become the 4th state in US to allow online gambling in any form (the other three being, Nevada New Jersey and Delaware).
Casino tycoon Sheldon Adelson has already made his intentions known by declaring interest in investing in Pennsylvania in the form of Sands Bethlehem. All that remains to be seen is whether speculation of stepping off traditional casinos and focusing on resort style gambling are proven true.