Pennsylvania Jockeys for a Slot

After years of falling short, Pennsylvania legislators appear to have reached a handshake deal that would allow slot machines at as many as 15 sites across the state, giving machine makers and casino operators yet another avenue for growth.

Pennsylvania legislators reached an agreement "in principle" to allow up to 3,000 slot machines to be placed at racetracks, off-track betting sites and resorts, helping make good on Gov. Ed Rendell's campaign promise to use gaming revenue to cut property taxes. But although the informal deal has been reached, it must be officially ratified by the legislature, and it faces strong opposition from community groups.

Analysts say this time will be different. A year ago, a similar agreement fell apart over disagreements on revenue-sharing and whether table games would be allowed at racetracks. Unlike last year, the bill's biggest supporters -- State Sen. Vincent Fumo and State Sen. Robert Tomlinson -- have compromised in order to get the deal done so upwards of $1 billion in gaming revenue can flow into the state's coffers. ...