With tribal casino plans also moving forward, lawmakers are signaling interest in an expansive gambling market
Missouri lawmakers are taking another step toward expanding legal gambling in the state, with a bill moving through the House that would regulate slot-style machines found in convenience stores and other retail locations. The proposal is sponsored by Rep. Bill Hardwick and recently advanced out of a House committee.
The legislation targets so-called “gray market” machines, often labeled as “no chance games” by operators. These devices are already widespread across Missouri, but currently exist in a legal gray area. Supporters of the bill say formal regulation would replace confusion with clear rules and consistent enforcement.
If passed, the bill would place these machines under the oversight of the Missouri Lottery. Operators would need licenses, and all machines would be monitored through a state system. Retailers would have one year to replace unregulated devices, while unlicensed machines would need to be removed entirely within two years.
The proposal also sets financial standards similar to those used by casinos. Machines would be required to return at least 80% of wagers to players and would face a 21% tax on profits. That’s a major shift from current machines, which court records show often return far less and are taxed differently.
Hardwick and other backers argue the move could deliver major funding for public priorities. Estimates suggest video lottery terminals could bring in up to $600 million a year for education, along with tens of millions more for veterans’ programs through fees and taxes.
The bill comes as Missouri continues to broaden its gambling footprint. Voters approved sports betting in late 2024, and the Show-Me State already relies heavily on casino and lottery revenue for schools.
