Illegal Slots Being Debated

Illegal gambling was the focus of a state Senate hearing Thursday morning, with lawmakers debating what to do about slot machines located in non-regulated locations such as gas stations. Senate Bill 10, sponsored by state Sen. Dave Schatz, addresses the loopholes in current law that make it difficult to investigate and prosecute illegal gambling. Any gambling that is not in a state-licensed casino is not regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission, meaning these activities are not regulated for fairness for gamblers and there is no system for taxing this revenue.

The bill would enable the Missouri Highway Patrol to investigate reports of illegal gambling and allow the Attorney General to aid prosecuting attorneys in trying these cases in court.