Senate Bill 666 looks to significantly alter the state’s gambling market
A new proposal in Pennsylvania could make things easier for casinos looking to adjust their operations. Senate Bill 666, introduced by Sen. Dan Laughlin, aims to reduce the minimum number of slot machines required for certain casinos to remain in compliance with state regulations. If passed, the bill would drop the long-standing rule that Category 1 and Category 2 casinos must operate at least 1,500 slot machines to stay open or qualify for licensing.
The current threshold has created challenges, especially for smaller or regional casinos that struggle to meet the minimum. Some have faced penalties or even threatened closures because they couldn’t maintain the required number of machines.
One example is Presque Isle Downs & Casino, which acknowledged in April that it may have to shut down. The venue was previously fined for failing to run the full 1,500 machines.
Sen. Laughlin believes the industry needs more flexibility to stay competitive. He explained that the market has changed, and rigid standards no longer reflect the needs of operators or the interests of the public. The new bill calls for a modest 2% reduction in total slot machine numbers, but casinos would still need approval from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board before making adjustments.
Supporters of the bill argue that the move could allow casinos to optimize their floors, reduce operational costs, and remain profitable without compromising regulatory oversight or state revenue. The proposal still has to pass through the full Senate and the House before it can be signed into law. Governor Josh Shapiro has shown openness to updates in gambling regulations, making it possible that he would support the change if it reaches his desk.
For now, the bill represents a small but potentially meaningful shift in how the state handles its casino landscape.
