Indiana Allows Bars Bingo-Based Gambling

Isn't it strange how those debating the morality of gambling always see their way clear when profits find a way into their hands?

Faced with the stark realities of economic conditions and competitive circumstances, Indiana lawmakers have voted to enact a law which goes into effect Tuesday allowing low-level gambling games at local bars and pubs.

Pull-tab tickets, as well as punchboard and tip board games, can now be sold at neighborhood watering holes. Of course, there is a $250 fee for a state license, and the state does collect a 10% excise tax on the games when purchased by the bar in order to resell them to gambling customers.

Isn't it strange how those debating the morality of gambling always see their way clear when profits find a way into their hands?

Pull-tabs are the equivalent of scratch-off games; rather than scratch and match, covered numbers or symbols are revealed by pulling off the cover and matching to winning combinations.

The new games are bingo-based. They were desired by bar owners pleading the need for a level competitive playing field, as private clubs and fraternal organizations have had licenses to offer such games for years. Between breaks for such organizations for gambling and, more recently, cigarette smoking, local saloons felt business flowing away.

While some opponents viewed the measure as just another way to continue gambling proliferation, the bill passed with bi-partisan support.