New Slots Bill Expected in Pennsylvania

A bill that would expand gambling beyond the realm of slots at racetracks is expected to be introduced in Pennsylvania this week, a Philadelphia television station reported Tuesday.

John Perzel, the House Speaker, wants to break a logjam between Democrats and Republicans over existing slots legislation. Perzel's bill would allow slots at tracks, as well as other venues, including casinos.

"Everything, really, is on the table," said Perzel spokesman Stephen Miskin.

While Gov. Ed Rendell said his main goal is to legalize slots at just racetracks, Miskin said that the two bills currently in play - one sponsored by Sen. Robert Tomlinson and the other by Sen. William DeWeese - don't have much support from either party.

Perzel's goal is to come up with a bill that will win approval in both chambers.

Rendell has said he wants a slots bill on his desk to be signed by June 30.

Recently, tavern and bar owners in the state also indicated that they want to be included in any slots legislation that's passed, as they will lose money to tracks that build their own restaurants to keep patrons at their "racinos."