The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) was asked by the state’s governor, Josh Shapiro, to begin the process of joining the Multistate Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA).
Josh Shapiro proposes Pennsylvania membership
In a letter dated Oct. 10 to PGCB Executive Director Kevin O’Toole, Shapiro requested that Pennsylvania join MSIGA to help the state “remain competitive in the legal gambling industry.”
So, MSIGA allows online poker players from one state to play against players from other US states that are also part of the agreement.
Thus, managed by MSIGA, the settlement was first established by Nevada and Delaware in 2014. But it has since grown to include New Jersey in 2017, Michigan in 2022 and West Virginia in 2023.
Shapiro highlighted how important the gaming industry is to the state’s economy, mentioning the 17 casinos and 22 online casino sites that employ more than 15,000 people.
The economic impact of games
The governor also drew attention to the $1.9 billion recorded in gaming revenue last year. He highlighted the generation of US$841 million in tax revenue for the state. In other words, with legalized gambling, Pennsylvania reached more than US$2 billion annually.
“So, in order for us to continue to be competitive in the gaming industry, I am expressing my strong support for Pennsylvania to join MSIGA. May the state stand alongside Michigan, Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey and West Virginia,” Shapiro stated in his letter.
“Pennsylvania must build on our status as a leader in legalized gaming and join this compact. This would bring additional revenue to the Commonwealth and allow players more gaming options.
“Therefore, my administration is prepared to do our part to help Pennsylvania compete in the gaming industry. We want to continue building a strong economy that works for everyone. My team stands ready to assist you with this effort to ensure Pennsylvania’s membership in MSIGA as quickly as possible.”