The Summer Meeting of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) is set to take place from July 17-20, 2024, hosted at Rivers Casino Pittsburgh. NCLGS stands out as the sole US organization where state lawmakers convene regularly to address matters concerning the gambling industry. While not advocating for or against gambling, the council is dedicated to ensuring proper regulation within the sector.
Under the theme “Welcome to Pennsylvania!”, a panel will convene to assess the local gambling landscape, featuring prominent figures from the industry. Leading the discussion will be Shawn Fluharty, NCLGS President and West Virginia State Delegate.
Joining the panel are State Senator Jay Costa, Kevin O’Toole, Executive Director at the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, Drew Svitko, Executive Director at the Pennsylvania Lottery, and Patrick Browne, Secretary of Revenue at the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
The council’s primary focus is aiding lawmakers in staying abreast of technological advancements and the ever-changing gaming environment through knowledge exchange and educational initiatives.
The July meetings will open discussions on Pennsylvania’s gambling scene, including the potential for the state to join the Multi-State Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), as proposed by Rep. George Dunbar’s House Bill 2078. This move could expand the state’s authorized gaming offerings pending approval and monitoring by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Pennsylvania’s potential accession would make it the latest addition to the MSIGA, alongside 24 other states such as California, Michigan, New Jersey, and West Virginia. Additionally, the regulation of skill-based games will be on the NCLGS agenda.
Pennsylvania’s diverse gaming landscape, encompassing land-based venues, horse racing, retail lottery, and iGaming, underscores its significance in the gaming realm. The state’s regulatory and political leaders will delve into the implementation challenges and insights across these gaming verticals.
Various crucial topics, including consumer protection in virtual realms, the economic impact of the horse industry, and the evolving landscape of lotteries, will feature prominently in discussions during the summer meeting.
