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Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board launches 'Behind the Bets' podcast
Ever wanted an inside look at how iGaming regulators work? The PGCB has launched a podcast that offers a rare glimpse into how it oversees the PA online casino market and enforces regulations.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) is getting into the podcast game, recently launching "Behind the Bets" on YouTube. This video series will give the public an inside look at how regulators handle day-to-day operations, enforce rules, and oversee PA-facing online casinos like betPARX. Sign up at betPARX Casino with code SLINECAS and get up to $500 in lossback casino credits and 250 bonus spins:
The goal of the Behind the Bets podcast
According to a press release from the PGCB, its podcast episodes will feature staff members and industry professionals discussing a wide range of topics. PGCB Director of Communications Doug Harbach will host each episode.
"The goal of this series is to increase transparency and provide Pennsylvanians with an inside look at how gaming is responsibly regulated in the Commonwealth," said Harbach. "As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, this podcast and video series will serve as an accessible way for the public to stay informed."
PGCB Director Kevin O'Toole was the initial guest on the podcast. Lasting just over 21 minutes, the first episode highlights why O'Toole came to Pennsylvania and if launching certain gambling verticals proved more challenging than others.
The key challenge facing PA gaming market
Perhaps the most interesting part of the first episode involved the current difficulties the PGCB is facing. O'Toole focused solely on discussing skill machines during this segment of the show.
"We have skill games all over the commonwealth where there's no transparency," said O'Toole. "I couldn't give you a list of how many there are or where they all are in the jurisdiction. […] It's gambling, and it should be under the gambling control act, but it's not."
O'Toole isn't the first Pennsylvanian to raise concerns over skill-based games in the state. Both land-based and PA online casinos worry about potentially losing revenue to these unregulated machines.
Skill games operate quite similarly to real money online slots since they have spinning reels, features, and animations. But those operating the machines claim they're different because some level of skill is involved. However, the skill is normally limited to manually tapping winning combinations to claim them.
How often will Behind the Bets episodes be released?
The first podcast of Behind the Bets launched in mid-May, followed by a second part/episode with O'Toole four days later. That said, I'm expecting a new episode at least every 1–2 weeks.
Again, this is a good opportunity to see how the gaming regulation world works. It's interesting if you're into playing online casino games for real money and want to see how the other side operates.
Speaking of which, if you're looking for a quality PA online casino site, then consider giving betPARX a try. You'll qualify for up to $500 in lossback casino credits and 250 bonus spins when signing up here with the promo code SLINECAS:
Responsible gambling
Bettors must be 21 years or older and otherwise eligible to register and place wagers at online casinos. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please seek assistance from trained professionals such as the Problem Gambling Help Network at 1-800-MY-RESET.
