Kansas City casino law takes effect

2007-04-19 14:47:27

Kansas state governor Kathleen Sebelius today signed a law that would allow the setting up of state-licensed casinos and lotteries.

Immediately after signing the bill, the governor contacted state attorney Paul Morrison, in order to make certain the new provisions would be on solid legal ground.

There is some concern that the new law will be seen as unconstitutional, and it still has to meet the approval of the Kansas Supreme Court.

An 1980 amendment to the Kansas constitution allows for a state-run lottery, but there is some debate as to whether this will cover the present arrangement.

Under the new legislation, projects to build a casino would have to ensure an initial investment of $250 million (just $50 million in Ford county) and a one-off payment to the state of $25 million.

The state would then get 22 per cent of revenues, with three per cent going to local government, and a further two per cent to a problem and addiction gambling fund.

These casinos would also have to meet with local approval from residents.

Four casinos already operate in northeastern Kansas, inside American Indian territory.

It is expected that at least one American Indian tribe, the Prairie Band of Potawatomi, will challenge the bill in court.


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