FROM: State Rep. Don Walko, D-North Side

TO: Editor

DATE: Oct. 3, 2007

CONTACT: Ben Turner, 717-787-7895, bturner@pahouse.net

State Representative Don Walko Reports:

Walko bill would help nonprofits raise money through bingo, other games

I have introduced a bill that would update laws that limit how much nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania can earn from bingo games, raffles and pull-tab games.

This legislation would modernize the way nonprofits raise funds in our state and update restrictions that have held them back. These changes would enable nonprofits such as volunteer fire companies and churches to expand their fund-raising capacity. With expanded gaming in Pennsylvania, these changes are more important than ever before.

My bill (H.B. 1857) would make several changes to reflect current technology and monetary inflation:

•           allow for the use of handheld electronic bingo cards;

•           allow for progressive jackpots;

•           increase the payout per day from $4,000 to $10,000;

•           allow for leasing of bingo halls and compensation for professionals to run the game of bingo;

•           remove limits on advertising; and

•           eliminate limits on pull-tab games and raffles.

The bill has been referred to the House Gaming Oversight Committee for consideration.

Law backed by Walko expands Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program

Speaking of gaming, the state lottery funds many worthwhile services for seniors. One of those, the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, has been expanded massively thanks to a law I supported. However, many people who could qualify for rebates of up to $650 are still not aware of this program.

The income limit for this program has been raised to $35,000 – that’s more than double the old limit. And many people with household incomes of about $40,000 can qualify because only half of a person’s Social Security or railroad retirement income counts toward the limit.

The maximum rebate amount has also been raised – it’s now $650. So I strongly encourage people who may qualify to look into this helpful program. It can make a huge difference for seniors on fixed incomes who are at risk of losing their family homes.

To qualify, a person must be 65 or older, a widow or widower 50 or older, or 18 or older with a permanent disability. Rebates issued this year are based on property taxes or rent paid in 2006. The deadline to apply is Dec. 31, 2007.

For help with the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program or other state-related concerns, please call my office at 412-321-5523.