Sebelius Praises Responsible Expansion of Gaming

Press Release

Governor says she intends to sign bill passed by Legislature early this morning

A bill allowing a responsible expansion of gaming will keep dollars in the state, attract out-of-state visitors and provide revenue for critical state projects, Governor Kathleen Sebelius said today.

Early this morning the Legislature passed a bill allowing for up to four destination casinos, as well as slot machines at the three existing race tracks in the state. Sebelius said she intends to sign the bill when it reaches her desk.

"The people of Kansas will finally have a chance to decide for themselves whether to allow expanded gaming," Sebelius said, referring to the requirement that local voters approve an expansion of gaming in their communities.

"Kansans long ago expressed their support for gaming, first in a 1986 statewide constitutional amendment, then through local votes for expanded gaming and through patronage of out-of-state and tribal casinos. This is a continuation of that process and will give local residents the final say," she continued.

It's estimated the state will receive roughly $200 million a year in revenue from gaming once all of the destination resorts are constructed.

"This new revenue will allow the state to meet key needs, such as deferred maintenance at Kansas universities and local property tax relief, while avoiding a tax increase," Sebelius said. The bill also requires $17 million to be spent on programs to help problem gamblers, a significant increase over current levels.

The destination casinos will attract visitors to the state - much like casinos just over the Missouri and Oklahoma borders have attracted Kansans. The authorization of slot machines at Kansas race tracks will also provide a boost to the state's ailing horse and greyhound racing industry.

"This is an opportunity for our state to generate out-of state dollars from visitors, to reinvigorate Kansas agribusinesses raising horses and greyhounds, and to maximize state revenue while maintaining strict regulatory oversight," said Sebelius.

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