PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – Video lottery policies in South Dakota will stay the same despite proposed changes this legislative session.
The latest move against legislation designed to enhance use of video lottery machines came Monday with the state House killing a bill that would have allowed the number of machines at gas stations and other licensed establishments to be raised from 10 to 15.
Last month, the House defeated a bill that would have increased the video lottery bet limit from $2 to $5.
Opponents of the bill voted down Monday said gambling addiction is a serious problem in the state and enhancing use of the video lottery machines would further harm addicts and their families. Supporters said gambling brings in substantial tax revenue to the state and there is demand for more of these machines, and they said killing the bill would not stop gambling vices.
On March 6, the head of the South Dakota Lottery said he would ask the state Lottery Commission to organize a study of the financial and social impacts of problem gambling on the state. This study put some representatives at ease, who then voted for the bill.
Rep. Scott Craig, R-Rapid City, said the gambling industry is designed for players to lose. He said he requested a summer study of gambling to be conducted by the Legislature, and that he was suspicious of a study coordinated by the South Dakota Lottery.
Several other legislators told stories of gambling addictions that have broken up families and caused financial ruin.
“This state needs to get out of the gambling business,” said Rep. Scott Ecklund, R-Brandon.
One of sponsors of the bill defeated Monday, Rep. Dick Werner, R-Huron, is a former member of the Lottery Commission. He said the video lottery has brought $2.2 billion in revenue to the state since it began in 1989.
Rep. Justin Cronin, R-Gettysburg, said the measure would have allowed businesses to meet the demand for video lottery across the state. He said its failure would not address problems with gambling addiction.
“No one is going to stop gambling because this bill fails or passes,” Cronin said.
Another bill designed to wean the state off video lottery revenue failed in a House committee on Feb. 20.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press.
