Missouri's endeavor to govern video gambling devices remains ongoing.
Hey there! Let's talk about what's happening in Missouri regarding video gambling machines.
Now, these machines are popping up in all sorts of places - convenience stores, truck stops, and even in some veterans' halls and bars. However, there's a bill on the table to change that.
Marshall Griffin, from Missourinet, reported on this recently, revealing that a Senate committee is pondering over a piece of legislation that would regulate these machines.
Remember Troy Stremming, the guy who lobbies for J&J Gaming? He recently appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee, advocating for the bill. His reasoning? "Proper guardrails should be put in place to protect the public, and proper taxation should be established," he said, "HB 970 provides this path forward."
But things aren't black and white here. This bill has sparked debates, especially since it could mean more gambling opportunities without a public vote, potentially leading to a surge in machines across the state.
As of now, HB 970 has already passed the Missouri House of Representatives. But it's hanging in the balance in the Senate, under careful consideration by the Appropriations Committee. With only a week left in the legislative session, time is of the essence.
So, that's the latest scoop on the ongoing video gambling legislation in Missouri. Stay tuned for updates!
- Troy Stremming, a lobbyist for J&J Gaming, recently told the Senate Appropriations Committee that proper guardrails should be placed and taxation established to protect the public, referring to HB 970.
- The Senate Appropriations Committee is weighing a bill, HB 970, that could potentially allow video gambling machines to pop up in various locations, including convenience stores and truck stops, and debate over this legislation has been fierce.
- The finance department will be playing a significant role in the proceedings, as they will determine the taxation aspect of the bill, should it pass, and its impact on Missouri's overall business climate.