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It seems that fraternal organization in Missouri will get there way with regards to slot machines.  Legislation that will allow lodges to carry slot machines is making its way very quickly through the Missouri General Assembly.  Before you know it the fraternal lodges in the state could become untaxed miniature casinos.

The bill that will allow veteran, fraternal, and religious organizations the license to operated Class II slot machines was only introduced last week.  These groups can already offer bingo games.  Sugar Creek Democrat, Representative Ray Salva, introduced the measure.  According to the bill, organizations are allowed one slot machine for every 40 members.

“I don’t think there’s any opposition to it,” said Representative David Day.  Day is the chairman of the House veterans committee.  Facilitating the road to slot machines, Day said he is hopeful that the measure could see the House floor for debate as early as next week.  Talk about an express ticket.

The fraternal lodges have a great chance of getting their slot machines as the measure is enjoying bipartisan support.  Cosponsoring the measure is Day and Republican Representative Steven Tilley, majority floor leader.

According to Day, many fraternal organizations have spoke up in defense of the measure but very little has been heard from the casino industry.  It is not surprising that casinos are opposed to fraternal groups getting slot machines.

Ameristar Kansas City Casino and Hotel executive, Troy Stremming, has expressed while the casino industry is not a fan of the measure they have not given it too much thought or worry.

 “From a competitive standpoint I’m not worried about a couple of machines in an American Legion hall,” said Stremming.

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