Gaming referendums in six US states

Voters in six states in the US will decide gaming expansion referendums tomorrow that range from authourising sports betting to allowing casinos.

Colorado voters are expected to approve an amendment to the state constitution that could allow baccarat and no bet limits as early as May. If the referendum passes, the state’s three casino towns could then hold local referendums to raise or remove the $100 bet limit and allow a greater variety of table games.

The change is seen as especially significant to casinos with hotels and resort amenities, allowing them to compete for gamblers who now visit Las Vegas. Among them are Penn National’s Ameristar, Caesars’ Isle of Capri and Monarch Casino. Denver is Las Vegas’ third largest feeder market.

Voters in each of Louisiana’s 64 parishes will decide whether they want legal sports betting. Enabling legislation would be necessary next year.

Maryland will hold a statewide referendum to decide whether to legalise sports betting. If the referendum passes, the legislature would need to enact enabling legislation.

Nebraska has three referendums to allow up to six casinos at racetracks and to direct gaming tax revenues to property tax relief. The referendums are pushed by the Ho-Chunk Indians and the Nebraska Horsemen’s Association.

South Dakota citizens will vote on legalising sports betting in Deadwood’s casinos and, in effect, the state’s 11 tribal casinos.

Virginia voters in four cities will decide whether to allow casinos. Richmond is also casino eligible and will hold a referendum at a future date.

Source: Fantini’s Gaming Report