Those that get the licenses will be allowed to offer raffles, pull-tab games and daily drawings provided the proceeds of the drawings are used for a charitable or public purpose, according to the news release.
Pennsylvania state agencies are preparing to implement a new law that allows bars to offer customers certain small games of chance, something previously illegal in the state.
Informational sessions are planned this month across the state for businesses eligible for so-called tavern gaming licenses.
One of the sessions is scheduled 1 p.m. Jan. 17 at the Best Western Plus Lehigh Valley Hotel and Conference Center, 300 Gateway Drive, Hanover Township, Northampton County, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board announced in a news release.
Gov. Tom Corbett signed Act 90 into law on Nov. 27. Applications for licenses become available Jan. 27. Those that get the licenses will be allowed to offer daily drawings, pull-tab games and raffles provided the proceeds of the raffles are used for a charitable or public purpose, according to the news release.
While the liquor control board will process the applications and ultimately approve them, other state agencies will have a role in tavern gaming. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board will conduct background checks on applicants, while enforcement will be the responsibility of the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue will oversee tax filings and other payment obligations.
"While we recognize taverns' immediate interest is in understanding the application process to become licensed to sell tavern games, we appreciate this early opportunity to provide taverns basic information about the tax obligations," Pennsylvania Secretary of Revenue Dan Meuser said in a statement.
Anyone with questions regarding the informational sessions is encouraged to call 717- 783-8250.