Pa. Treasurer Considers Blocking Move To Private Lottery Operator

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - As more details emerge about the contract for private management of the Pennsylvania Lottery, the state treasurer says he's more concerned, not less, about the legality of the contract.

State Treasurer Rob McCord has previously indicated he'll use his authority to withhold payments to the private Lottery manager if he deems it necessary. And he says he's not heard anything to put his mind at ease.

"I haven't made the final decision yet, but right now I certainly am taking a look at this with increasing concern."

McCord has said he's concerned that adding Keno to the Lottery is an expansion of gaming, and that, he says, would require legislative approval. But, if he decides the contract is illegal, he's not likely to wait until Keno is launched.

"One of the concerns here is to try to stop waste before it happens. So, within the boundaries of our proper authorization, I would probably err on the side of trying to act early."

McCord says he's having conversations with Attorney General and fellow Democrat Kathleen Kane who is presently reviewing the legality of the contract.