Missouri Debates Removing Casino Loss Limits For Gamblers
Missouri legislators are looking to possibly repeal the provisions of the state gambling laws that puts loss limits on casino customers. A bill introduced by Senate Republicans would also increase the tax paid by casios with annual revenues over $40 million, adding a 1% surcharge to existing taxes.
The bill would also cap the number of casinos, offering instead the chance at higher levels of play at existing casinos with the removal of loss limits.
Missouri currently has laws allowing a patron to only gamble up to $500 in a two-hour period. As neighboring states, particularly Kansas, prepare to expand casino operations, some Missourians are worried customers will cross state lines for the chance to wager more.
Opponents of the bill are concerned that voter approval of gambling came only with the promise of loss limits.
However, loss limits have proved problematic in enforcement, and may cause gamblers to choose less restrictive environments that do not contribute to state coffers. Presenting gamblers with better education programs, along with the freedom to choose which wager sizes best suit themselves, probably would best serve Missouri in the long run.
