Pennsylvania House Bill HB1340

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/6/25
• Refer: 5/6/25

Caption

Making appropriations from the restricted revenue accounts within the State Gaming Fund and from the restricted revenue accounts within the Fantasy Contest Fund and Video Gaming Fund to the Attorney General, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1340 is expected to have significant implications for Pennsylvania's state laws regarding gaming and fiscal management. By designating specific allocations to key regulatory bodies, the bill enhances the financial stability required for these departments to effectively carry out their duties, including oversight of gaming operations, compliance enforcement, and regulation of associated financial activities. This could improve the overall integrity of gaming in Pennsylvania while also providing a financial foundation for law enforcement activities related to gaming, thereby potentially increasing public trust in regulatory processes.

Summary

House Bill 1340, known as the Gaming Control Appropriation Act of 2025, proposes appropriations from the restricted revenue accounts within the State Gaming Fund, Fantasy Contest Fund, and Video Gaming Fund. The bill aims to allocate funds to various state agencies including the Attorney General, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026. It addresses payments for expenses incurred in the previous fiscal year as well, ensuring that essential services related to gaming operations maintain their funding. This structured financial support is crucial for the effective governance and regulation of gaming activities within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1340 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers focused on the regulatory framework of gaming in Pennsylvania. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary funding to ensure the effective oversight and regulation of gaming activities, which is essential for protecting consumers and maintaining a fair playing field for operators. However, there may be concerns around the sources of these funds and whether they adequately meet the demands of an increasingly complex gaming environment. Overall, the bill reflects a commitment to maintaining robust regulatory structures in a sector that generates considerable state revenue.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB 1340 involves the allocation of funds from restricted revenue accounts and the implications for different stakeholders in the gaming industry. Some may question the fairness and transparency of how these appropriations are determined and whether they reflect the actual needs for regulatory oversight versus administrative costs. Additionally, while the bill supports necessary law enforcement funding, discussions may arise around the adequacy of resources for addressing emerging gaming technologies and market expansions. These discussions could influence future legislative efforts and adjustments to funding mechanisms for gaming regulations in the state.