The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has issued a warning about unlicensed dealer training schools. The state’s slot casinos have recently begun requesting authorisation to operate table games after Senate Bill 711, now Act 1 of 2010, provided for existing Pennsylvania casinos to conduct table games through the filing of a petition with and approval by the PGCB.

Yesterday state officials said Pennsylvanians interested in training to become casino table games dealers should be wary of unlicensed schools that are operating illegally. "Before anyone invests their time and money into learning the skilled trade of being a table games dealer, they need to make certain they are learning from a legitimate institution," Education Secretary Gerald L. Zahorchak said.

"The addition of table games in Pennsylvania provides a tremendous employment opportunity for many, but these skilled jobs require training from state-approved schools," said Gaming Control Board Chairman Greg Fajt. "Casinos can only hire dealers who are legally certified, so if you want to be considered for a job operating table games, make sure you are being trained by a legitimate institution."

The Department of Labor & Industry, in consultation with the Department of Education and the Gaming Control Board, recently adopted curriculum guidelines and minimum proficiency requirements for gaming school instruction. Gaming training can be offered in Pennsylvania at any accredited college or university, community college or private licensed school. Programs at private licensed schools must be approved by the Board of Private Licensed Schools before being offered to the public. Additionally, before any private, independent gaming school can legally operate, advertise or enroll students in Pennsylvania, it must be licensed or registered by the State Board of Private Licensed Schools.

"We must be ready to take advantage of the economic benefits available to our workforce through the addition of table games at casinos," Labor & Industry Secretary Sandi Vito said. "The proper establishment of education and training programs will ensure that our workers are fully prepared to meet the current demand for quality table games staff in our gaming industry."

Secretary Zahorchak stressed that licensure is mandatory, and schools found to be operating without a license will be ordered to close. "Pennsylvania strictly regulates private licensed schools in order to protect consumers and ensure students receive the quality learning they deserve." (E-03.16.10)

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