The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) is dedicated to upholding the integrity and safety of the state’s gambling industry. Recently, the PGCB fined Wind Creek Bethlehem $125,000 for multiple incidents involving underage individuals accessing the casino’s gaming floor.
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB)
The Violations
Over a 20-month period, Wind Creek Bethlehem experienced 10 incidents where individuals aged 18-20 accessed the gaming floor. These violations prompted the PGCB to take decisive action to enforce regulatory compliance and uphold Pennsylvania’s gambling laws.
Enforcement Measures
During a public meeting, the Board’s Office of Enforcement Counsel (OEC) presented a consent agreement approving the fine. This demonstrates the PGCB’s proactive approach to addressing violations and holding operators accountable for maintaining strict age restrictions.
Protecting Minors
In addition to penalizing casinos for underage gambling, the PGCB is addressing cases of adults leaving minors unattended on casino premises. One such instance involved a male and female patron leaving a 5-month-old child unattended in a running vehicle for 30 minutes while they gambled at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack. Another incident saw a female patron leaving a 4-year-old child unattended in a non-running vehicle for 15 minutes at Rivers Philadelphia Casino in 2017.
Consequences and Awareness
The PGCB emphasized that leaving minors unattended at casinos not only poses risks to children but also exposes responsible adults to potential criminal prosecution and exclusion from all Pennsylvania casinos. To raise awareness about this issue, the Board initiated an awareness campaign titled “Don’t Gamble with Kids.”
Future Initiatives
Looking ahead, the PGCB remains committed to enforcing stringent regulations to prevent underage gambling and protect minors. The Board’s next meeting is scheduled for 26 June at the Strawberry Square Complex in Harrisburg, where further initiatives and regulatory updates may be discussed.
By taking decisive action against violations and promoting awareness, the PGCB is playing a vital role in upholding the integrity and safety of Pennsylvania’s gambling industry.
FAQs About PGCB Fines Wind Creek Bethlehem $125,000 for Underage Gambling Violations
1. What is the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB)?
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) is a state agency responsible for overseeing and regulating the gaming industry in Pennsylvania. It ensures the integrity and safety of gaming activities within the state.
2. Why did the PGCB fine Wind Creek Bethlehem?
The PGCB fined Wind Creek Bethlehem $125,000 for multiple incidents involving underage individuals accessing the casino’s gaming floor. These violations were deemed serious breaches of regulatory compliance.
3. How many incidents of underage gambling were reported at Wind Creek Bethlehem?
Over a 20-month period, Wind Creek Bethlehem experienced 10 incidents where individuals aged 18-20 accessed the gaming floor, prompting regulatory action from the PGCB.
4. What measures did the PGCB take to address the violations?
The PGCB took decisive action by approving a consent agreement during a public meeting. This agreement included imposing fines on Wind Creek Bethlehem and highlighted the Board’s commitment to enforcing age restrictions.
5. What consequences do adults face for leaving minors unattended at casinos?
Adults who leave minors unattended at casinos not only risk endangering the safety of children but also face potential criminal prosecution and exclusion from all Pennsylvania casinos.
6. What is the “Don’t Gamble with Kids” campaign initiated by the PGCB?
The “Don’t Gamble with Kids” campaign is an awareness initiative by the PGCB aimed at educating the public about the risks of leaving minors unattended at casinos. It emphasizes the importance of responsible gambling practices.
7. What are the future initiatives of the PGCB?
The PGCB remains committed to enforcing stringent regulations to prevent underage gambling and protect minors. Future initiatives may include further regulatory updates and awareness campaigns.
8. When is the next PGCB meeting scheduled?
The next PGCB meeting is scheduled for 26 June at the Strawberry Square Complex in Harrisburg. It provides an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss regulatory matters and initiatives related to the gambling industry.
9. How can individuals report violations or seek assistance from the PGCB?
Individuals can report violations or seek assistance from the PGCB by contacting their office directly or visiting their official website for more information on reporting procedures and resources available.
10. What role does the PGCB play in upholding the integrity of Pennsylvania’s gambling industry?
The PGCB plays a vital role in upholding the integrity and safety of Pennsylvania’s gambling industry by enforcing regulations, addressing violations, and promoting responsible gambling practices.
