Robbins: Lobbyist and Gaming Reforms Signed into Law

Harrisburg – Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) announced that the Governor has signed into law two long sought after reforms -- a new Lobbyist Disclosure Law and reforms to the 2004 Gaming Law.

While the Senate has had lobbying rules in place since the Supreme Court struck down the previous law in 2002, House Bill 700 puts into place similar rules not only for the Senate, but the House and Executive Branch as well. The State Ethics Commission and Department of State will administer the new law.

"As a long-time proponent of lobbyist reform, I am pleased that we finally reached agreement with the House and Governor on legislation that will require every lobbyist to register with the state and file quarterly spending reports," said Sen. Robbins. "These sunshine provisions are important to the integrity of state government."

Additionally, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill 862, legislation cosponsored by Senator Robbins that includes a host of reforms to the Gaming Law. The new law:

Eliminates the provision allowing public officials to hold a financial interest in a gaming license. *Establishes a Code of Conduct for the Gaming Control Board.
Ensures that the PA Gaming Control Board is subject to the Right-to-Know Act, the Sunshine Law, and other open-government laws.
Requires employment practices to follow those of other state agencies, including the requirement that background checks be completed before employment.

Senate Bill 862 contains two significant reforms advocated by Senator Robbins. First, the Attorney General now has a strong enforcement role over gaming operations. Secondly, the Department of Revenue is charged with ensuring that slot machines are not tampered with to defraud customers.

"While I opposed bringing slot machines to Pennsylvania, we absolutely must fight the corruption that comes with it," said Robbins. "This new law establishes a Gaming Unit within the Office of Attorney General to investigate and prosecute criminal activity associated with gaming."

CONTACT:

Nate Silcox
(717) 787-1322