The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) released its 2022-2023 Annual Report, providing a comprehensive overview of the region’s gambling sector. The regulator shared insights on more than just the industry’s financial contribution, highlighting the results of its child safety policies and successful diversity programs. These results reveal Pennsylvania’s gambling sector retains its potential for sustainable, socially responsible growth.
Pennsylvania’s Gambling Sector Enjoyed Impressive Financials
According to the PGCB’s report, Pennsylvania emerged as the second-wealthiest gaming state in the United States the previous year, only falling behind Nevada. Its diverse gaming landscape includes 17 brick-and-mortar casinos, iGaming platforms, retail and online sportsbooks, video gaming truck stops, and online fantasy sports. Yearly revenues for the sector exceeded $5.2 billion, narrowly surpassing New Jersey’s gross gaming revenue (GGR).
Pennsylvania’s rise as a leading gaming jurisdiction is a direct result of the comprehensive gaming package signed into law in 2017 by then-Governor Tom Wolf. This legislation authorized various forms of gambling, allowing operators to cater to every market niche. The PGCB releases regular monthly reports on the state of the industry, helping it foster sustained growth.
The Pennsylvania regulator has been instrumental in ensuring player safety, regularly taking decisive action against regulatory breaches through substantial fines. The PGCB plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of operators and players, remaining vigilant in the face of rising challenges and industry developments. Initiatives like Pennsylvania’s overhauled self-exclusion program protect players and guarantee operator integrity.
Social Initiatives Addressed Some Pressing Concerns
The report also confirms improvements to the pressing issue of gamblers leaving their children unattended. Official data revealed 303 incidents in 2022 involving 486 minors left alone outside gaming establishments. However, the PGCB’s awareness efforts are showing results, with a 58% reduction in unattended children incidents in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022.
Improved diversity within the Pennsylvania gaming industry was another win for the sector. Women and racial minorities held a larger share of casino jobs than in the previous three fiscal years, and 90% of employees were Pennsylvania residents. However, diversity numbers dropped in upper management and executive positions, revealing lingering challenges.
While the PGCB’s 2022-2023 Annual Report celebrated Pennsylvania’s thriving gaming industry, it also underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy and responsible sector by keeping operators accountable for player safety. A recently proposed law to completely ban smoking in land-based casinos reflects the state’s dedication to its residents as it balances the interests of various stakeholders to achieve lasting success.