Home

It is very possible that Missouri will soon pass House Bill 566.  The new bill would allow fraternal and veteran organization all around the state to operate slot machines as a means of raising funds.  At one point in time these groups were given Bingo in order to raise money, but as Bingo is losing its draw, slot machines are now on the table.

There are about 384 nonprofit game sponsors throughout Missouri.  They would use the revenues from the slot machines to finance charitable projects.  Though gambling venues in the state are not largely supportive of this new measure, they do not think the limited payout slot machines are a big threat to their operations.

However, there are some that oppose this measure completely.  For some it is a matter of spending tax dollars.  These new slot machines would operate for the express purpose of helping out charitable organizations, which means the slot machines will not be taxed and will not create any revenue for state coffers.  But, $1.3 million in tax money will be needed by the Missouri Gaming Commission each year to monitor the new slot machines spread around the state.

Groups concerned with the encouragement of problem gambling do not feel that fraternal halls are an appropriate venue for slot machines.  These new slot machines would be extremely limited in their payout, but that does not mean a problem gambler will not dump their life savings into one.  Some groups do not believe a bartender is likely to ask a gambler to leave the slot machines.  There is also a fear of kids having easy access to the slot machines.

Casino News