Urging the Pennsylvania Legislature to repeal the provision of HB 446 that allows gaming facilities to serve free alcoholic beverages to their patrons.

WHEREAS, On November 21, 2006, the Pennsylvania Senate and House voted in favor of HB 446, which encompasses various liquor controls and guidelines; and

WHEREAS, While HB446 will help Philadelphia address nuisance liquor establishments by revamping Act 39, it will hurt Philadelphia by allowing gaming facilities to serve alcoholic beverages to their patrons free of charge; and

WHEREAS, While advocates of free drinks argue that Philadelphia slots need to be competitive with New Jersey, Delaware and New York, regulations must be implemented to avert increased criminal activity and drunken driving and to ensure quality of life for Philadelphia residents; and

WHEREAS, By permitting free alcoholic drinks, it will be easier for patrons to become intoxicated, which will increase nuisance crimes such as noise, prostitution, litter and loitering; and

WHEREAS, Philadelphia's two slot casinos are expected to attract approximately 4 to 6 million visitors annually, many of whom will drive; and

WHEREAS, Offering free drinks to patrons may result in greater alcohol consumption for those who drive and can yield higher rates of drunken driving; and

WHEREAS, Nearby entertainment establishments, including bars and restaurants, may be adversely affected by casinos offering free alcoholic beverages; and

WHEREAS, Philadelphians deserves fair liquor laws and guidelines to protect and ensure that their quality of life is not intruded on by alcohol related nuisances and crime; and

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, THAT this Council urges the Pennsylvania Legislature to repeal the provision of HB 446 that allows gaming facilities to serve free alcoholic beverages to their patrons.

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