Plan to track personal gambling losses faces opposition in Pa.

A controversial bill aimed at helping problem gamblers in Pennsylvania is moving through the state House of Representatives. The measure requires casinos to send out monthly win-loss statements to certain customers.

Many casinos across Pennsylvania offer reward cards to their customers. Like supermarket store cards, individuals are eligible to receive discounts and other complimentary services if they spend enough.

State Rep. Paul Clymer, who authored the bill, wants casinos to send monthly spending statements to card-carrying patrons.

The goal is to help reveal problem gamblers to family and friends.

“The purpose is to allow family members to see if there are severe losses taking place because an addicted gambler is kind of secretive, does not show any emotion, does not indicate that he or she has been losing heavily at the casino,” said Clymer of Bucks County.

Clymer’s bill faces opposition from inside and outside the General Assembly.

Pro-casino groups argue that mailing statements would cost millions and cut into the tax revenues the state gets from the industry.

Some House Democrats argue that problem gamblers can avoid facing loved ones simply by betting without a card.

The House Gaming Oversight Committee passed the bill in April. Clymer hopes the measure will reach the House floor some time this year.