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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | July 8, 2020 12:25 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Ed Neilson |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Legalize Esports Betting |
| The citizens of Pennsylvania are 54% stockholders in the Pennsylvania Gaming Industry due to our stringent regulations and citizen focused tax rates. In turn, this had made Pennsylvania a leader nationwide in balancing available gaming options throughout the Commonwealth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, online gaming has significantly increased and Pennsylvania needs to be certain that we are properly positioned and not cannibalized by surrounding states. Last year, the esports industry was valued at $1.1 billion worldwide. In the coming years, it is estimated that the esports industry has the potential to generate nearly $1.8 billion in economic activity. Philadelphia is currently building a multi-million dollar facility strictly dedicated to esports gaming that will attract worldwide events, the first of its kind in the United States. Esports has provided a desired distraction for many individuals during this global pandemic by allowing players and viewers to stream and watch games online. With esports, sports fans have a way to still experience the thrill and action of sports, while maintaining proper social distancing requirements. To capitalize on this up and coming industry, New Jersey recently introduced legislation to legalize gambling on esport sporting events, such as video game tournaments. These legislative avenues are also being considered across the nation. I believe Pennsylvania should quickly add this to our portfolio which will help boost our economy and grow our already expanding gaming industry. Therefore, I am introducing legislation to legalize betting on esports in Pennsylvania. Please join me in co-sponsoring legislation to allow Pennsylvania to expand our gaming options to further provide for our citizens. Thank you. |