PA Senate Leaders Issue Statement on Supreme Court Ruling

HARRISBURG - Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-39) and Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41) issued the following statement today on the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania's ruling on skill games:

"We appreciate the clarity the Supreme Court has given with today's ruling. As expressed in the decision today, 'Under a plain reading of the law, "skill game" devices are subject to both the Gaming Act and the Crimes Code.'

"The proliferation of skill games is a matter of public safety which must be addressed, and given the timing of this decision, we believe gaming reform is a critical piece of resolving this year's budget. In addition, with the fiscal realities facing our Commonwealth, it stands to reason that new revenue from gaming reform should be directed to the general fund, as the Governor proposed in his 2026-27 budget.

"Last year, Senate Republican Leadership introduced a gaming reform bill as a basis for discussion and with the Supreme Court ruling now in hand, we look forward to all parties swiftly engaging in meaningful conversations to resolve this issue."

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Erica Clayton Wright (Sen. Ward)
Kate Flessner (Sen. Pittman)