April 2, 2008
House passes slot machine bill
The House of Representatives yesterday approved a bill to allow the Penobscot Nation to operate slot machines on Indian Island near Old Town.
The original bill, LD 701, which was carried over from last session, would have allowed the Penobscot Nation to operate 400 of the 1,500 slot machines currently allowed by law in Maine in its high-stakes bingo parlor. However, the bill was amended to reduce the number of slot machines "a federally-recognized Indian tribe" could operate from 400 to 100, and only allow their operation during the weekend when bingo games are in session. The amendment also reduced the percentage of net slot machine income that must be distributed to the Gambling Control Board from 38% to 22%. After the amendment, the House passed the bill 101-42. The bill still needs approval from the Senate.
Gov. John Baldacci remains opposed to the bill, vowing to veto it. In a statement to the Bangor Daily News, Baldacci said he opposes any expansion of gambling that does not originate from a citizen referendum.
The original bill, LD 701, which was carried over from last session, would have allowed the Penobscot Nation to operate 400 of the 1,500 slot machines currently allowed by law in Maine in its high-stakes bingo parlor. However, the bill was amended to reduce the number of slot machines "a federally-recognized Indian tribe" could operate from 400 to 100, and only allow their operation during the weekend when bingo games are in session. The amendment also reduced the percentage of net slot machine income that must be distributed to the Gambling Control Board from 38% to 22%. After the amendment, the House passed the bill 101-42. The bill still needs approval from the Senate.
Gov. John Baldacci remains opposed to the bill, vowing to veto it. In a statement to the Bangor Daily News, Baldacci said he opposes any expansion of gambling that does not originate from a citizen referendum.
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments