What is your stance on Amendments 2 and 5 regarding gambling legislation?

Legal and Regulatory Aspects
1

I’m still undecided on these two amendments and would appreciate any insights. Here are condensed details about each amendment:

AMENDMENT 2 – Authorization of Sports Betting
Should the Missouri Constitution be changed to:

  • Enable the Missouri Gaming Commission to oversee licensed sports betting, including online options, betting boats, and mobile operations;
  • Limit betting to individuals over 21 and physically present within Missouri;
  • Allocate a 10% tax on revenues for education, after the Commission’s administrative expenses and compulsive gambling prevention funding;
  • Permit the legislature to create laws that align with this amendment?

Estimated costs for state entities are $660,000 initially, with ongoing expenses exceeding $5.2 million annually, while initial licensing fees might yield $11.75 million. Tax revenue could range from $0 to $28.9 million. Local governments’ revenues are uncertain.

Pros: Advocates argue that legalizing sports betting could boost state revenue, particularly for education, similar to 38 other states.

Cons: Critics warn it may worsen compulsive gambling issues and believe the projected revenue is insufficient to offset societal costs.

AMENDMENT 5 – New Casino at Lake of the Ozarks
Should the Missouri Constitution be modified to:

  • Permit the issuance of an extra gambling boat license on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to Bagnell Dam?
  • Mandate that the location includes artificial water spaces within 500 feet of FEMA-defined flood elevations?
  • Ensure that all state-provided revenues from this license go to early-childhood literacy programs in public elementary schools?

State financial forecasts suggest one-time costs of $763,000, ongoing annual costs around $2.2 million, initial fee revenue of $271,000, and potential gaming tax income of $14.3 million annually, with local revenue still unknown.

Pros: Supporters believe the new boat would fund early literacy programs and boost local employment and economics.
Cons: Detractors argue it may hinder the Osage Nation’s efforts to establish their own casino and question whether the revenue will significantly enhance educational funding.

Remember that early voting is currently available until election day!

2

i’m leaning more towards supporting both amendments. for amendment 2, legalizing sports betting offers clear tax revenue opportunties that could uplift education funding. for amendment 5, the new casino might create jobs and help local economies. concerns about gambling addiction are legit, but existing programs can be strengthened w tax income.

3

From my perspective, it’s crucial to consider the potential economic benefits against the social risks these amendments present. Speaking to Amendment 2, while the revenue can indeed bolster educational initiatives, there’s also the fear of fostering gambling habits. Having lived in a state where similar measures were implemented, I observed that strict regulation and community support programs are key. Regarding Amendment 5, the possibility of a new casino might bolster the tourism sector significantly, but it’s essential to ensure local voices and interests are prioritizd to maximize these benefits effectively.

4

Hey there, it’s interesting reading everyone’s takes on these amendments! :blush: Personally, I’m a bit torn too but here’s my two cents.

For Amendment 2, I think legalizing sports betting could definitely shake things up in a good way by bringing in much-needed funds for schools. But as someone who has seen friends struggle with gambling issues, I do worry about the rise in addiction. It seems like a double-edged sword, right? :sweat_smile: Maybe if there’s a solid plan for helping those who might be affected by gambling issues, it could be worth the risk.

Amendment 5 though… creating more local jobs could be a game-changer! Lake of the Ozarks has so much potential. But, I’m a bit skeptical about how well these funds will actually reach the early literacy programs. Transparency in fund allocation would really help set everyone’s minds at ease. It all feels like a lot of hypotheticals until we see real actions. Can’t wait to see how this all plays out! :crossed_fingers: