A Missouri Senate committee has unanimously rejected a bill to legalize video lottery terminals across the state
The Senate Select Committee on Gaming recently halted progress on a House-approved measure that would have permitted video lottery terminals in retail environments such as gas stations and convenience stores. Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, who chaired the committee, opted to move directly to a vote without engaging in further debate. This decision effectively ends the possibility of gambling expansion in Missouri for the current legislative year. Leadership within the chamber expressed significant concerns regarding the impact these machines could have on local communities, suggesting that any such expansion should instead be decided by voters on a statewide ballot.
Supporters of the legislation emphasized the potential for massive financial gains, claiming the terminals could generate approximately $300 million for state education programs and $56 million for veterans services. The proposal included a requirement for machines to return at least 80% of wagers to players while applying a 3% tax on profits to benefit local governments.
Additionally, the bill sought to implement a $250 annual fee per machine to support disability services and proposed doubling the casino admission fee from $2 to $4 per visitor. Despite these promised revenues, many lawmakers remained skeptical about building state budgets around expanded gambling.
Opposition also came from the Missouri Gaming Association, which represents the 13 licensed casinos currently operating in the state. Industry representatives argued that the proliferation of unregulated machines has already negatively impacted tax revenue at established venues. This concern is heightened by recent data showing an 11% decline in casino revenue this past March compared to the previous year.
While some legislators acknowledged the need for new funding sources, the prevailing sentiment was that the social costs and the potential for increased gambling addiction outweighed the projected economic benefits. Following this unanimous rejection, the debate over regulated gaming machines in Missouri will remain on hold until at least the next legislative session.
