LJWorld.com / Senate panel endorses gambling expansion plan

Archive for Thursday, March 18, 2004

By the Associated Press

March 18, 2004

Topeka — A Senate committee endorsed Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' gambling proposals Thursday after expanding the legislation to allow slot machines at certain bowling alleys, driving ranges and some other recreational sites.

The bill reflects the governor's proposals for up to five, state-owned "destination" casinos as well as slot machines at dog and horse racing tracks and at 240 private clubs operated by veterans and fraternal organizations. The clubs could have five machines each.

At the request of Sen. Donald Betts, D-Wichita, the Federal and State Affairs Committee added a provision for slot machines at sports or recreational businesses that had been in business at least five years and were already licensed to offer the state's Club Keno lottery game.

Eligible sports-related businesses -- which might also include those offering such activities as batting cages and go-kart tracks -- would be allowed five slot machines each. Legislative staff said at least 120 bowling alleys would be permitted to have slot machines.

"Everyone else has been included," Betts said in explaining his amendment.

Under the bill, the state would receive at least 22 percent of the revenues from casinos and 64.5 percent of the revenues from the slot machines at tracks, private clubs and sports businesses.

Sebelius' office has estimated that expanded gambling could generate up to $250 million for the state.

Committee Chairman Pete Brungardt, R-Salina, said Betts' amendment could kill the bill's chances of passage in the Senate.

"It weakens the total act," Brungardt said. "I think it will be challenged on the floor."

Gambling bill is HB 2053.

On the Net:

Kansas Legislature:http://www.kslegislature.org