Pennsylvania is the latest state to legalize poker, blackjack, and other table games at racinos. This is great news for poker players all over the United States as the fight to legalize poker has gained momentum.
Governor Ed Rendell signed the bill on Thursday, January 7, 2010. It may take as long as six to seven months for the first cards to be dealt but licensing fees will pour into the state far before that. The table games are expected to generate about $640 million in taxes over the next two years as well as create new jobs for the unemployed. Additionally, the additional foot traffic will generate income and expand non-gambling offerings such as hotels and restaurants.
Other states looking to get out of the economic turmoil that the recession has handed them may look to Pennsylvania as an example or precedent. Hopefully, other states will follow suit in the near future and poker will be a nationwide game played by all without reservations.