HCS HB 1994 -- EXCURSION GAMBLING BOATS

SPONSOR:  Zerr

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Tourism by
a vote of 8 to 0.

Currently, tokens, chips, or other forms of credit can only be
used for wagering on excursion gambling boats.  This substitute
allows them to be used to purchase food or beverages on the
excursion gambling boat.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds in FY 2011, FY 2012, and
FY 2013.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that since the repeal of the gambling
loss limit in 2008, this provision of law is no longer necessary.
Exchanging casino chips for food and beverages is common practice
in other states.  This will make it easier for the wait staff to
conduct business on the casino floor since patrons will not be
required to exit the boat to get cash to purchase food and
drinks.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Zerr; Missouri Gaming
Association; Missouri AFL-CIO; United Steelworkers District 11;
Dave Morton, Unite Here; and AFT Missouri.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Missouri House of Representatives
95th General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 14, 2010 at 3:12 pm