Pa. lawmakers agree on $31.9 billion budgetWith a day left in the 2016-17 fiscal year, Governor Tom Wolf and leaders from both the House and Senate appear to have agreed upon a $31.9 billion spending plan for the upcoming state budget.
...... The question then remains, how will the state pay for it?
Projected revenues did not come to fruition last year, and Pennsylvania is in the red around $1.5 billion. In an effort to make up the difference, House Republicans passed a historic gambling expansion bill, which would add video slot machines to establishments across the state, including airports, bars, taverns, and other special clubs.
Rep. Mark Mustio (R-Allegheny) told FOX43 earlier in the week the VGT-based gaming expansion could net $300 million in new, non-taxed revenue. However, the majority of Senators aren't keen on the idea of relying on so-called "sin taxes" to balance a budget. Many are, however, in favor of a limited gaming expansion, including internet-based casino games and online lottery games.
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Jennifer Kocher, a spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman (R-Centre) said as of Thursday afternoon, no revenue options had been taken off the table.