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Our lawmakers need to act.
While we cannot pretend to know the exact details of the compromise the state Legislature needs to reach, we know the state Supreme Court's decision on skills games places undeserved stress on civic organizations -- including fire companies and veterans organizations -- across the state.
Many such organizations have come to depend on revenue from the electronic gaming terminals. These organizations use that revenue in ways that help neighborhoods and communities across our region and beyond.
Some of the leaders of these organizations recently spoke out about the deadline at a rally on which the Sun-Gazette reported in Tuesday's edition.
"Keeping these doors open is important because our post is much more than a social club," Sam Aungst, commander of Williamsport's American Legion Post, said. "It is a place where veterans can come for support, friendship, resources and a sense of community."
"What people don't realize is how this will affect us if it is gone because there is no doubt," business owner Anthony Mussare said. "The money that these clubs get is going back to the community."
Our region, of course, also benefits from manufacturing jobs -- the terminals are built right here in Lycoming County.
One bill touted by our state Sen. Gene Yaw, R-Loyalsock Township, would create the necessary framework and fees for the gaming terminals to continue contributing to these organizations.
Even if the senator's bill is not the final version, it is a starting point -- and we believe our lawmakers need to start making whatever revisions and amendments are necessary to secure the right of these valient organizations to benefit from the better financial stability that the terminals have offered.