Missouri’s upcoming ballot features an important proposal known as Amendment 5. This initiative seeks to modify the state constitution to increase the number of casino licenses from 13 to 14. Spearheaded by Bally’s Corp. and the Osage River Gaming and Convention Committee (OGCC), this proposal aims to establish a new casino along the Osage River near the Bagnell Dam at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Amendment 5 stands as one of two significant gambling proposals slated for the Missouri ballot this November. The second initiative, driven by the state’s sports teams, aims to permit statewide retail and mobile sports betting. Major wagering companies like DraftKings and FanDuel support this sports betting initiative, while opposition has emerged from Missouri’s existing casinos. Notably, Caesars Entertainment has invested $4 million in the opposition campaign against sports betting.
Recently, Bally’s and OGCC presented updated project renderings to the Lake Ozark Board of Aldermen. Their plans include not only a casino but also a hotel, conference center, and retail options. Importantly, the license will be open to other bidders, although Bally’s, which already operates a casino in Kansas City, has formally expressed interest.
Key Details and Requirements
If approved, Amendment 5 would dismantle a previous cap on casino licenses instituted in 2008. The language of the amendment allows for the construction of casinos on or near artificial bodies of water. Given that the Lake of the Ozarks is a manmade lake created by the U.S. Army in the late 1920s, this provision directly applies.
The initiative also modifies existing regulations concerning the distance of casinos from water sources. Currently, casinos must be within 1,000 feet of a riverbank. The new proposal stipulates that eligible locations must include artificial water bodies and be within 500 feet of the 100-year flood elevation as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
To pass, the initiative requires a simple majority from Missouri voters in the upcoming election. If successful, it is projected to generate approximately $14.4 million annually in gaming tax revenues. These funds are earmarked for elementary education and literacy programs across the state, making the initiative not just a potential boon for the gaming industry but also for educational resources in Missouri.
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