Missouri Debates Possible Limits to Casino Growth
In an unusual situation, gambling operators and legislators in the state of Missouri are in agreement about limiting further casino expansion. A bill introduced by Representative Shannon Cooper which would put a two-year stop on the issuance of new licenses has drwan strong support from existing casinos.
Missourians are nervous about the possible effects on the twelve casinos currently licensed by the potential competition from proposed Kansas casinos. Customers who have been traveling to play may stay at home in Kansas when that becomes available.
Some lawmakers are uncertain about the idea of a moratorium. Pinnacle Entertainment is building a casino in St. Louis County, due to be completed next year, which will need a new license to open.
Cooper promised that he would ask for the Pinnacle project to be grandfathered in before the moratorium would go into effect. Still, other legislators felt that the free market might better decide the future of the gaming industry.
"I really don't think it's our business to make the business plan for this industry or any other industry," said Patricia Yaeger, a St. Louis County Representative.
It has been seen elsewhere, including Louisiana and Indiana, that casinos already operating may cry out against dilution of the market, but competition has generally served to increase overall business while forcing operations to maintain high standards. Why pass a moratorium, when each case can be settled individually?
