It turns out there is a growth industry in Pennsylvania, after all.
Casino gambling.
An industry survey released on Wednesday indicated that revenue from gambling in Pennsylvania was up 21 percent in 2011. Casinos raked in a total of $3 billion and generated $1.5 billion in tax revenue for the state.
The news was not quite as chipper over in Atlantic City. Their revenue was down 7 percent. The fortunes of the shore gambling resort continue to struggle in the wake of the new colossus of the East Coast gambling. That would be Pennsylvania’s 10 existing casinos, including Harrah’s down there on the Chester waterfront.
Nationally, gaming was showing signs of shaking off the effects of the recession, posting a 3 percent gain. Talk about hitting the jackpot. Total casino revenue in the nation topped $35 billion last year.
Here’s a question. Is there a way to use some of this money for education? Think the people in Upper Darby would like to get their mitts on some of this gambling booty?
Don’t hold your breath waiting for that to happen.
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