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Washington Minicasino Bet Limit Raised

WASHINGTON – As reported by the Tacoma News Tribune: "The Washington State Gambling Commission voted Thursday to double the maximum bet at minicasinos to $200.

"The move was applauded by minicasinos owners, who had sought the change, but it rankled some powerful state lawmakers and might have touched off a turf war between the commission and the Legislature.

"…For now, Vito Chiechi, a lobbyist for the Olympia-based Recreational Gaming Association, said the increase, which is set to go into effect July 1, 'is a good win.'

"Chiechi's group, which represents non-tribal gambling businesses, petitioned the commission last July to boost the maximum wagers for hands of blackjack and other card games to $300. They said it would help the state's more than 80 house-banked card rooms compete with tribal casinos, which have a $500 per-bet limit and have seen their profits soar in recent years.

"…It also will hurt families around the state, warned gambling opponents.

"…But Chiechi predicted that only high rollers would be affected by the change, asserting most gamblers don't come anywhere the $100 maximum.

"…The bet limits had been set at $100 since soon after the state allowed non-tribal businesses to offer house-banked card games in 1997.

"Since then, profits from tribal gambling have eclipsed those of non-tribal gambling. In 2002, tribal gaming operations brought in $700 million in revenue, compared to $440 million by nontribal gaming operators, including those running house-banked card rooms, punch boards and pull tabs and bingo games, according to the Gambling Commission…"

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