Pennsylvania's Gambling Revenue Soars in October

The standout headline from Pennsylvania's gambling scene in October is the unprecedented success in sports betting. The handle climbed 4.0% to a record-breaking $797.1 million, propelling sports betting revenue up by 18.8% year-on-year to $48.2 million. Hollywood Casino at the Meadows and Barstool emerged as leaders in the market, generating $18.9 million in revenue from $258.3 million in bets.

Online gambling, including slots, tables, and poker, continued to thrive. While October's total revenue of $154.8 million fell just short of the September record, it marked a significant 24.3% increase from the previous year. Hollywood Casino at Penn National maintained its dominance in the online gambling sector, posting $62.2 million in total revenue.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board took strict measures against underage gambling. Hollywood Casino at Penn National's operator, Mountainview Thoroughbred Racing Association, was fined $40,000 for allowing individuals under 21 to gamble. Lightning Gaming, a licensed slot machine manufacturer, also faced a $5,000 fine for failing to report financial changes to the PGCB.

In alarming incidents, several adults faced consequences for leaving minors unattended while gambling. Pennsylvania State Police intervened when a player left a one-year-old in a locked vehicle at Valley Forge Casino Resort. Another player left two minors in a vehicle at Live! Casino Pittsburgh, while a female patron left minors in a vehicle at Live! Casino Philadelphia. These incidents raised concerns about the safety of minors in casino environments.