SEARCH NEWS:

 

Local Approval Not Needed for Kansas Gambling Plan

TOPEKA, Kansas – As reported by the Wichita Eagle: "Wichita and Sedgwick County officials still have no position on gambling, with two exceptions:

"They want voters to have a say, and they want a share of any gambling profits.

"Under Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' proposal, they may get neither.

"Sebelius' bill provides for voter approval for up to five tourist-destination casinos. If one is proposed for Wichita, Sedgwick County voters would get their say.

"But a separate part of the bill authorizes up to 2,500 video lottery terminals -- similar to slot machines -- at existing pari-mutuel tracks, which includes Wichita Greyhound Park. That part of the bill requires no vote.

"…Phil Ruffin, owner of Wichita Greyhound Park, has said that if Sebelius' proposal becomes law, he likely would install 1,000 video lottery terminals.

"…As proposed by the governor, track owners would get 21 percent of gambling profits. Dog- and horse-breeding groups each would get 7 percent. The rest would go to the state.

"…Several Wichita-area lawmakers said voters should have a say…"

< Gaming News