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Missouri Education Board Wary of Casino Ballot

JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri – As reported by the Associated Press: "The state Board of Education cautioned Missouri voters Thursday about unanswered school funding questions arising from a proposed amendment on Tuesday's ballot to allow a casino in southwest Missouri.

"Board president Tom Davis said it was unusual, but not unprecedented, for the board to weigh in on a ballot measure. He also made clear that the board is not telling voters to defeat the amendment, but simply informing them of the effects on education if voters approve it.

"…Voters will consider a constitutional amendment Tuesday that would allow a casino along the White River at Rockaway Beach, a tiny town near Branson, and direct the resulting state tax revenue to poorly performing schools.

"Under the Missouri Constitution, taxes on the state's 11 other casinos are divide among all public institutions of elementary, secondary and higher education.

"Board vice president Peter Herschend asked the state board to adopt a position paper spelling out concerns about education funding. Herschend's family also owns Silver Dollar City in Branson, and has spent more than $1 million fighting the amendment.

"…Still, casino supporters expressed concern about vote by the state Board of Education, which sets standards for Missouri's 524 public school districts and policies for the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education…"

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