Governor Rendell in Pennsylvania is trying to battle the exorbitant tuition fees for college by taxing the booming video poker industry in the state. There was both cheer and uproar from equally divided house. Those who were in support of the legislation saw it has a rational way of regulation as the rising profits from casino video poker machines can help poor students. Law makers were also standing by Governor Rendell’s proposal. Yet, there was wide spread fear that problem gambling can be on the rise in the state. There were also concerns regarding the tax dollar relief enjoyed by the Casinos in the state and the impact that the national lottery has had on the state so far.
The proceeds from the new proposal will go a long way to help the relief programs and for educational assistance. This new legislation is expected to generate about $500 million every year and the proceeds will go to help 14 state-owned universities and many community colleges too. The legislation is not well received amongst casinos as the market share of them has been dwindling and equally disappointed were institutions that did not qualify to receive such funds.
Governor Rendell is undeterred and he is convinced that the revenues and profits from casinos will help to sustain business in local bars and restaurants while delivering money for the needed. The food and recreation industry feel that it comes as a relief to bring additional customers after the no-smoking legislation drew them away. Many fear that the Governor is on a path to legalizing gambling in the state of PA.