Groups oppose Mo. casino ballot measure

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Both those who are critical of gambling and those who support expanding it in Missouri said Thursday that they have formed political committees to oppose a casino measure that's on the November ballot.

The measure, called Proposition A, would repeal Missouri's unique law limiting gambling losses to no more than $500 in a two-hour period; cap the number of new casino licenses; and increase the tax rate for casinos to 21 percent from 20 percent.

A cost estimate prepared by the state auditor presumes that repealing the loss limit would bring in more than $100 million for schools. According to the Missouri Gaming Commission, the average casino patron loses about $69 during a visit.

Supporters for the measure include business groups and the state's existing casinos. It is to appear on the Nov. 4 ballot.

But the ballot measure's constitutionality already is being challenged in lawsuits filed by the anti-gambling organization Casino Watch and by a Cape Girardeau businessman and Rep. Ray Salva, D-Sugar Creek, who both support casino expansion. All three have now formed or joined two political committees to oppose the ballot measure.

Evelio Silvera, the executive director of St. Louis-based Casino Watch, said he believes most Missourians are opposed to lifting caps on gambling losses and that the opposition groups will help inform voters about what the measure does.

"We're starting from a position where a majority of Missourians are with us on this," Silvera said. "It's much easier to build off a base than it is to form a base."

Silvera said he's planning to travel throughout the state next week to formally announce the creation of the opposition group. Casino Watch plans to hold news conferences in St. Louis, Kansas City, Jefferson City and Springfield.

Scott Charton, a spokesman for the coalition supporting the ballot measure, said that the proposed changes are needed to help Missouri's schools and expand its economy. Charton said critics of the measure fall on the two extremes of the gambling issue, which he said is a good indication that it is reasonable.

"Proposition A is a very solid proposal that will increase funding for schools and other services without increasing taxes on Missouri residents," Charton said.

Salva said that critics of the ballot measure are already at a monetary disadvantage and need to be organized. His group opposes capping the number of casino license.

"It's a David vs. Goliath here," Salva said.