HARRISBURG, Pa.--Waiting for a flight is often a long and tedious process for passengers. But soon, travelers may be able to hit the slots while at the airport.
Representative Nick Kotik has officially introduced the bill to authorize the use of slot machines in state airports.
The bill would apply to six international airports in the state: Erie International Airport, Harrisburg International Airport, Lehigh Valley International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Pittsburgh International Airport, and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
The slot machines would be located past security checkpoints. The amount of machines would correlate with the number of boarding passengers. Kotik says, "Airport slot machines could only be used by ticketed passengers. The normal day-to-day activities at these airports would not be interrupted."
The proceeds of these slot machines would go to the airports as well as local municipalities.
HIA's executive director says they are very interested in the idea. Airports are hoping that having these slot machines will attract more business.
Some of HIA's passengers also support the idea. Carol Klauber says, "They do need the business here, and as long as it's regulated good I think it would be OK."
And first-time flyer Darren Spangenberg says, "I think it's addicting and it can be bad for the wrong person but for the right person, why not, it's fun."