Lebanon PA News

Rep. Russ Diamond has expressed approval of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board's decision to withdraw plans for automatic removal from the self-exclusion list used by casinos to prevent problem gambling. Diamond, who serves as the Republican chairman of the House Gaming Oversight Committee, raised concerns that automatic removal could occur without necessary discussions with gamblers or confirmation of their desire to be removed.

"The withdrawal of this proposed regulation is a huge win for the protection of our problem gamblers and our counselors and mental health professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that problem gamblers get the help they need," stated Diamond. He also emphasized his hope that "the gaming control board will re-engage in this rulemaking to make the self-exclusion process consistent between all forms of gambling, while protecting our problem gamblers at the same time."

The regulation in question, #125-250, aimed to facilitate automatic removal from the self-exclusion list at casinos—a list initiated through compulsive and problem gambling initiatives over two decades ago. The self-exclusion option allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from legalized gaming activities in Pennsylvania for periods of one year, five years, or a lifetime. Currently, individuals must request removal once their chosen period ends.

Diamond highlighted potential risks associated with automatic removal: "Removing someone from the self-exclusion list without their request makes it more likely that person is unprotected from further gambling addiction and financial and emotional harm."

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has informed the Independent Regulatory Review Commission about its decision to withdraw proposed regulation #125-250.