The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is testing the state’s appetite for more mini-casinos with at least one more auction for a mini-casino license, writes Ed Mahon for the PA Post.

The creation of mini-casinos was approved by the state legislators two years ago as a way to balance the budget. The mini version of casinos can have up to 750 slot machines and 40 table games.

So far, five mini-casino licenses have been auctioned off by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. This resulted in $127 million being added to the budget. However, there were no takers for the sixth license.

According to Mike Straub, a spokesman for the House Republican Caucus, lawmakers now want the board to offer one more chance to casino operators.

“The idea was sort of that it was worth it to see if there was a renewed interest,” said Straub. “If they don’t sell this time, this book will close.”

The auction will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 4. If no one bids at least $7.5 million, no more licenses would be offered. However, if the sixth license auction is successful, the board could add up to 10 mini-casino licenses in total.

Read more about mini-casinos from PA Post here.