Mo. Senate OKs removing many bingo regulation

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Senators have given first-round approval to legislation dropping or loosening many of Missouri's bingo regulations.

The legislature last year approved a similar bill, but Gov. Jay Nixon vetoed it. Senators endorsed this year's bill by voice vote on Monday, and it needs a second round of approval before moving to the House.

This year's bill abolishes the limits set by law on the daily winnings that can be awarded to bingo players. Instead, the Missouri Gaming Commission would set the ceiling.

The measure would also extend the hours in which bingo can legally be played. Missouri now allows bingo from 10 a.m. to midnight. The bill would allow the game to be played from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.