Missouri May Let Voters Decide on Slot Machines

Missouri lawmakers are once again debating the future of slot-like machines found in gas stations and small businesses, and this time, voters themselves could have the final say.

“It’s Something That Should Be Put on the Ballot”

The president of the Missouri Senate, Cindy O’Laughlin, believes that putting the issue on a statewide ballot could be a good idea, giving residents the opportunity to decide whether they wish for these machines to be legalized and regulated or not. 

The idea was born during a legislative hearing that was focusing on the best approach to deal with so-called “gray market” gaming devices that have rapidly expanded throughout the Show-Me State.

These machines, often described as video lottery terminals, have operated in a legal gray area for years. Their supporters, as expected, argue the games should be officially brought under state oversight and taxed properly, while their critics believe they should be removed altogether.

“Maybe it’s something that should be put on the ballot,” O’Laughlin said during the discussion. “If it were up to me, I would have had them all removed by now.”

Regulation Could Bring Order and More Tax Revenue

According to the recent ruling of a federal judge, many of these machines qualify as illegal gambling devices under Missouri law, thus opening the door for stricter action against operators.

In parallel, lawmakers are looking into legislation that would replace unregulated machines with a system run by the state, with similar ideas floating around for years, often hitting harsh opposition from senators despite coming out with flying colors from the House.

A clear decision should be made sooner rather than later, in the context of the machines generating significant revenue in bars, convenience stores, and other locations where they are freely found at the moment. 

According to some officials, regulating VLTSs would attract more orders while boosting tax income. On the other hand, those lobbying against these machines have expressed their worry regarding expanding access to gambling in everyday settings.

Amid concerns about just how widespread the machines have become, in mid-March, Missouri authorities launched statewide operator crackdowns, giving targeted gas stations and liquor stores strict deadlines to either remove or shut down the devices, according to Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway.