Slot Machine Legislation

If you have ever walked into a bar or convenience store, chances are, you’ve seen a slot machine or two. These machines are called Video Lottery Terminals, and the bill would regulate these games and tax them. The bill would also regulate horse racing in Missouri. Even though voters approved pari-mutuel horse wagering in Missouri in 1984, it’s been nearly 30 years since the first track was built. Hoskins, however, seems intent on moving forward with his all-inclusive gaming agenda in 2022.

In Missouri, over 14,000 VLTs are operating, and the state is currently fighting against this legislation. The case is likely to end up in the Missouri Supreme Court in Jefferson City. Slot machine proponent Bob Hoskins said that the legislation is necessary to ensure the continued success of the machines in the Land of Lincoln. As of this writing, Illinois’s slot machines have brought in $1.6 billion in state and local taxes. However, many states are still examining the legality of this legislation, and Hoskins is eager to see what happens.