Rules and Assistance for Casino Games Readily Available in Pennsylvania to Help Patrons Gamble Responsibly

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Chairman of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board today reminded patrons who gamble at a Commonwealth casino that help is available in understanding the rules of games that will permit them to play wisely and responsibly.  

"Gaming at casinos can be intimidating and confusing for first time visitors, or even regular patrons, who choose to play a game," says Gaming Control Board Chairman Greg Fajt.  "We suggest that before setting foot in a casino, have a plan on how much you are willing to spend when gambling and never play games without taking some time to understand the game and its rules.  Following these two simple suggestions will help you have a more enjoyable time and not regret your visit when you leave."

Fajt says that through both law and regulations, all Pennsylvania casinos are required to have information available to patrons on the rules of the games they offer.  The rules can come in the form of information sheets, brochures and through help menus on a slot machine.  

"This information, along with information on compulsive and problem gambling are always available at security podiums, players club desks and other high visibility areas within Pennsylvania casinos," he says.

In addition, Fajt says that if you don't understand something about a game, don't hesitate to ask casino staff for help.  

"While casinos are mandated by the Board to have the rules of the game available in print, casino customer service representatives are also available to help patrons with questions," Fajt explains.  "This help includes the dealers who are not only trained in explaining the games to new players but are also a great source to a returning player in better understanding a particular table game."

Another Board regulation designed to help patrons is a requirement for the casinos to post table game rules and gaming guides on their website.

Patrons can also familiarize themselves on the rules of the games by reviewing the Board's regulations on its web site, www.pgcb.state.pa.us, while the American Gaming Association (www.aga.com) also has an informative publication on the myths and facts of slot machines.

Finally, casinos often hold classes on how to play each game for patrons.  These classes are usually held in a roped off section of the casino and allows patrons to understand the rules of particular games before using their own money in a live game.  

The Board recommends that you contact the appropriate casino by phone or review their web site for more information on these events.

About the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board was established in 2004 with the passage of Act 71, also known as the Race Horse Development and Gaming Act. Pennsylvania's first new state agency in nearly 40 years, the Gaming Control Board is tasked to oversee all aspects of the state's casino industry. Currently, the ten casinos in operation in the Commonwealth employ over 14,000 people. Legalized gaming has generated over $4.7 billion in tax revenue since the first casino opening in November 2006. That money is enabling property tax reduction for all Pennsylvania homeowners, providing needed funding to Commonwealth's horse racing industry, and establishing a new stream of tax revenue to local governments for community projects. A wealth of information about the Gaming Control Board and Pennsylvania's gaming industry can be found at www.pgcb.state.pa.us. At this web site, visitors can view videos of Board meetings and on the operation of the PGCB, obtain information on identifying a gambling problem and gaining assistance, look up future meeting schedules and past meeting transcripts, access an interactive map of casino locations, request a speaker for their group, along with much more information

CONTACT:  Doug Harbach or Richard McGarvey, 717-346-8321

SOURCE Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board