A look back: Dec. 20, 1988

Religious, civic and fraternal groups will be able to operate small games of chance legally next year under legislation signed into law by Gov. Robert P. Casey.

The bill, Casey said, authorizes conduct now going on involving organizations having a valid public purpose, but now requires them to obtain a license for such activities.

Under the law, county treasurers will be responsible for licensing the nonprofits while district attorneys will be charged with the duties to enforce the regulations of the games.

The governor said the new law requires “that the games will be run by reputable organizations and not by professional fast-buck artists.”