The website of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has now published the ownership stakes of applicants for gaming licences. The information released is part of a regular update of applicant information made public. The PGCB says it will continue to update and supplement it lists even after gaming licenses are awarded. It is responsible for licensing 14 gaming facilities in Pennsylvania and expects to award all permanent gaming licenses in December 2006.

Chairman Tad Decker commented, The Board will continue to balance its obligation to follow the strict confidentiality requirements of the Gaming Act with its obligation to conduct an open and transparent licensing process," adding, "This will ensure that the public has confidence in the gaming industry and in the agency that oversees this industry."

The PGCB should announce the winning bidders for the 7 racetrack licences next month. The Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, also known as Act 71 of 2004, allows up to 61,000 slot machines in Pennsylvania. The complex ownership structures of the applicant companies had previously not been revealed by the PGCB, which said it was restricted by the 2004 law.

However, pressure for complete transparency has led to the now public knowledge ranging from Quincy Jones holding a 4% interest in one project and Donald Trump a 29% in another. For those interested there are 16 pages on view by visiting www.pgcb.state.pa.us, click on ‘Licensure’ and then on ‘Ownership Stakes.’ (E-08.22.06)

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