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Casinos Fund Washington State Slot Initiative

WASHINGTON – As reported by the Seattle Times: "Money from nontribal casinos and bowling alleys is powering Tim Eyman's initiative campaign to lower property taxes and widen the use of electronic slot machines.

"So far, Eyman reports raising $158,500, according to state campaign-finance reports filed yesterday, much of it within a few days after he announced his campaign for an initiative to lower state property taxes by installing slot machines in nontribal establishments and taxing the proceeds.

"…Within a week, owners of Grand Central Casino in Tukwila and Chips Casino La Center in La Center, Clark County, each contributed $25,000 to Eyman's signature-gathering effort.

"AAA Bowls, another name for Skyway Park Bowl & Casino, contributed $12,500 that week. Another casino, Rascals, in Seattle, also gave $25,000 last month.

"…Nontribal cardrooms as well as taverns and other establishments have long wanted to install the lucrative slots but have been unable to gain approval from the Legislature.

"Tribal casinos oppose any change, saying slot-machine competition would destroy one of their main attractions…"

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