Jan. 08, 2015
HARRISBURG – Rep. John Payne (R-Dauphin) has been appointed by Speaker of the House Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) to serve as the new majority chairman of the House Gaming Oversight Committee for the 2015-16 legislative session.
“I view this new responsibility as a chance not only to ensure integrity in the industry, but explore opportunities for expansion and reform that could generate additional revenue for our economy,” Payne said.
The Gaming Oversight Committee oversees slot machine gaming, bingo, small games of chance, amusement laws and table games in Pennsylvania. In addition to its legislative responsibilities, the committee has oversight of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and aspects that deal with gaming within the Department of Revenue, the Office of Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Payne noted that gaming is not only important to our tourism industry, but proceeds help fund property tax relief, fire and emergency medical service grants, programs for senior citizens, and the state’s general fund.
“Recent reports from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board showed slot machine revenue topped $2.3 billion for the fourth consecutive year. We need to look at ways to enhance that growth, because a large portion of that money supports citizens and communities across the Commonwealth,” Payne added. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in this new capacity.”
This assignment is Payne’s first as a committee chairman. He previously served on the House Commerce, Consumer Affairs, Liquor Control, Transportation and Tourism and Recreational Development committees.
Representative John Payne
106th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
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