HARRISBURG — Some state lawmakers want to allow games of chance to be played in bars to raise money for the cash-strapped state and charities.

Philadelphia Democrat Vince Hughes said Wednesday that the extra money could save some state programs from being cut amid a $1.2 billion shortfall this year.

A bill sponsored by Republican Sen. Edwin Erickson of Delaware County would divert some of the money raised to local charities. Bar owners support it as a boost to their bottom lines. The games are already allowed in nonprofit clubs, volunteer firehouses and churches, and the bill would raise their weekly prize limits to $20,000 from $5,000.

Gov. Ed Rendell says he is concerned that adding more games of chance could hurt the lottery revenue that funds programs for senior citizens.