Kansas Expanded Gambling Plan Rejected

TOPEKA, Kansas – As reported by the Wichita Eagle: "The Senate rejected expanded gambling 24-16 Thursday night, likely ending debate on casinos for the 2004 session.

"Authorizing tourist-destination casinos was one of Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' major initiatives this year, although she included no gambling revenues in her budget or school-funding proposals.

"…Gambling opponents argued that allowing casinos would lead to broken homes, political corruption and bankruptcies.

"…Supporters, however, said that Kansans should be allowed to choose for themselves and that the state would benefit from additional revenues.

"…[Sebelius] originally sought up to five destination casinos, video lottery terminals at pari-mutuel tracks -- such as Wichita Greyhound Park -- and up to five video lottery terminals at veterans and fraternal clubs.

"A Senate committee, however, included bowling alleys and other recreational businesses to the list of establishment that could have gambling machines, adding 114 sites.

"…Casino supporters tried unsuccessfully to remove the bowling alley provision.

"…Supporters also failed in an attempt to scale the bill back to three destination casinos.

"Under the bill, voter approval would be needed for destination casinos. However, it would have authorized video lottery terminals at pari-mutuel tracks without voter approval…"

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