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For Immediate Release Senator Brubaker Cosponsors Gaming Reform LegislationNew bill calls for accountability and integrity HARRISBURG – State Senator Mike Brubaker (R-36) has joined with Senate and House colleagues to cosponsor legislation that would establish a number of fixes to Pennsylvania's Gaming Law and implements recommendations made by the Fourth Dauphin County Grand Jury. "I was very disappointed when the Governor signed the Gaming Law into effect in 2004," Brubaker said. "However, since legalized gambling is now a reality in this Commonwealth, we cannot stop working to ensure that it is governed by the most ethical principles possible." A major component of the legislative package involves creating a Division of Gaming Enforcement under the Attorney General, where it would have the complete authority of a law enforcement agency in carrying out investigations. Other key components of the legislation include decreasing the number of board members from seven to five and limiting their outside employment. The legislation would also amend the casino ownership licensing process and procedures that the board follows by requiring public hearings on the qualifications of applicants and tightening the license and permit disqualification criteria. Under the new bill, felons would be prohibited from holding a gaming license. People proven to be associated with organized crime and career criminals would also be prohibited from holding a license. "The recent case involving the Mount Airy casino owner, who was charged with lying about his connections to organized crime, clearly illustrates the need to improve these aspects of the Gaming Law," Brubaker said. "The gaming industry and those who run it must be held accountable for their activity and protected from criminal activity," Brubaker said. "These reforms are both important and necessary to ensure that we have proper oversight of the Gaming Control Board and common-sense safeguards in place."
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