A new poll commissioned by Pace-O-Matic (POM) has found that there is strong bipartisan support for skill-based gambling games among Pennsylvanians. The poll was administered by Cygnal Polling and Analytics and found that only one in five voters were in favor of a ban on skill gaming.
POM has been in contention with retail casinos and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PCBG), who wish to ban skill-based games. The company claims that the PCBG is in the pocket of the state's casinos and that this push for a ban was a “direct assault” on the legality of the skill gaming industry.
POM argues that, unlike traditional gambling products such as slot machines, it offers games that require the player to use mental skill and patience. Furthermore, they posit that skill games offer great economic benefit to The Keystone State.
Cyngal pollster Brock McCleary commented: “Skill-based gaming has had a positive impact on organizations, as well as local manufacturing and small businesses. Skill games helped Pennsylvania small businesses and support from 57% of voters. This theme of supporting struggling Pennsylvania businesses and keeping the profits within the state is a big winner.”
The company alleges that the negative targeting of POM and its Pennsylvania Skill product is unfair, malicious and based solely on the greed of Pennsylvania casinos. This has led to litigation from the company against the Pennsylvania Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement (BLCE) and (PGCB) alleging they engaged in ‘coordinated harassment’ against them.
The litigation also alleges that the BLCE and PGCB were actively in communication with casinos and their agents, who directed them to target POM skill games and their customers.
McCleary commented: “If one thing unites Republicans and Democrats, it is opposition to banning skill-based gaming. The poll shows majorities of voters across Pennsylvania all oppose banning skill games.”
