It’s not surprising that state governments are facing budget deficits. The national economy is still floundering and many people are out of work. There’s a loss of revenue and a strain on social benefits provided from states. Governments are looking everywhere to pinch pennies or attract new revenue streams, so it should not come as a surprise that taxes on gambling is a potential source of new income. On the eastern seaboard Atlantic City is the closest thing to Las Vegas style gaming mecca.  However some states like Pennsylvania and Maryland might be looking to encroach on Atlantic City’s gaming profits by legalizing and taxing table games of their own.

In Maryland, a commission recently recommended to lawmakers that they consider table games. This may not seem like a big deal but just a few years ago a huge controversy erupted over whether or not Maryland should even allow slots. To move from the controversy over slots to recommending table games in such short order speaks to the seriousness with which Maryland is considering using gaming taxes as a vehicle to shrink a budget deficit. Before table games become a reality there are some hurdles to clear but it is obvious the government believes there is a potential benefit.

Pennsylvania has moved beyond the conceptual theory of whether or not they believe table games like poker and blackjack can provide tax benefits, they’ve already signed it into law. It will take time for the casinos in Pennsylvania to get their table games up and running, but it is expected they will take a chunk out of Atlantic City’s action.

Gaming has stepped out of the tawdry shadows and into the light as lawmakers look to repair their local economy. The jobs that will be provided inside casinos and the surrounding areas will also help bring some economic benefit to the counties and state too. The general public has also signaled a willingness to consider all opportunities that would help lift the economy. Not everyone can be happy with the development though, I’m sure Atlantic City casino proprietors are keeping a close eye on which states not only allow table games but steal a portion of their previous customer base.

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