Gov Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/gov/ The Ultimate Keno Destination for Odds, Tips & Tricks Tue, 30 Apr 2024 22:42:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://i0.wp.com/kenowizard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-keno-wizard-icon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Gov Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/gov/ 32 32 230792155 Atlantic City Casino Workers Clash with Gov. Murphy Over Smoking Ban https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/30/atlantic-city-casino-workers-clash-with-gov-murphy-over-smoking-ban/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/30/atlantic-city-casino-workers-clash-with-gov-murphy-over-smoking-ban/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 22:42:23 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/30/atlantic-city-casino-workers-clash-with-gov-murphy-over-smoking-ban/ Atlantic City casino workers have voiced their discontent with Gov. Phil Murphy‘s stance on the smoking ban proposal. The governor’s comments during News 12’s “Ask Gov. Murphy” program stirred controversy among members of the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) group, who vehemently oppose his assertion that there are valid arguments on both sides of [...]

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Atlantic City casino workers have voiced their discontent with Gov. Phil Murphy‘s stance on the smoking ban proposal. The governor’s comments during News 12’s “Ask Gov. Murphy” program stirred controversy among members of the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) group, who vehemently oppose his assertion that there are valid arguments on both sides of the issue.

Casino Workers and Industry Debate Escalates Over Smoking Ban Advocacy

During the program, Gov. Murphy acknowledged the differing viewpoints within the casino industry regarding the proposed ban. He highlighted the concerns raised by the United Auto Workers (UAW), representing dealers, who advocate for the ban citing the discomfort caused by patrons smoking in close proximity. 

Conversely, he pointed out the reservations expressed by Local 54 of Unite Here, another prominent union, fearing adverse impacts on business if the ban were to be implemented.

Responding to the governor’s remarks, Pete Naccarelli, co-founder of CEASE, emphasized the lack of parity in the debate. He criticized Gov. Murphy for according legitimacy to what he termed as “casino industry scare tactics,” which he believes are fueled by unsubstantiated claims. 

Naccarelli asserted that independent research, based on current data, indicates that casinos could actually experience enhanced revenue in a smoke-free environment. He called upon Gov. Murphy to exhibit leadership in safeguarding the well-being of workers, stressing that no one should be compelled to compromise their health for the sake of employment.

Atlantic City Casino Workers’ Lawsuit Faces Setback Amid Hearing Postponement

CEASE, in collaboration with UAW Region 9, has taken legal action against Gov. Murphy and the state health commissioner, contesting the exemption granted to casinos from the Smoke-Free Air Act of 2006. A court hearing to address the matter has been scheduled for May 13, underscoring the escalating tensions surrounding the issue.

The postponement of the anticipated hearing for the lawsuit seeking a smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos, filed by workers represented by CEASE and the UAW union, presents a setback in their efforts for safer workplaces. 

Pete Naccarelli previously expressed frustration over the delay, highlighting the continued health risks faced by thousands of workers. Despite opposition from the Casino Association of New Jersey, workers remain determined to pursue a comprehensive ban, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding health and constitutional rights.

Workers in Atlantic City casinos, represented by the UAW, resorted to legal action by filing the lawsuit challenging the exemption that allows smoking in gambling establishments, arguing it violates equal protection under the law. 

This move reflects ongoing efforts to address concerns about workplace safety amid the industry’s resistance to banning smoking, sparking similar campaigns in other states such as Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia, and drawing attention to the broader issue of workers’ rights in the gaming sector.

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Alabama Gov. Ivey Shows Support for Gambling Proposal https://kenowizard.com/2024/02/08/alabama-gov-ivey-shows-support-for-gambling-proposal/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/02/08/alabama-gov-ivey-shows-support-for-gambling-proposal/#respond Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:06:04 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/02/08/alabama-gov-ivey-shows-support-for-gambling-proposal/ The 2024 legislative session in Alabama will focus on a number of issues, including election voting, education and gaming. State Gov. Kay Ivey issued her 2024 State of the State Address, highlighting a number of important initiatives that will be among the priorities for lawmakers this year. In her State of the State Address, she [...]

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The 2024 legislative session in Alabama will focus on a number of issues, including election voting, education and gaming. State Gov. Kay Ivey issued her 2024 State of the State Address, highlighting a number of important initiatives that will be among the priorities for lawmakers this year. In her State of the State Address, she showed support for an initiative that “prohibits ballot harvesting” in Alabama.

Additionally. Gov. Ivey supported an education proposal and spoke about the importance of resolving the state’s issue with gambling. Speaking about a current proposal that paves the way for the expansion of gambling in Alabama, she expressed hope that lawmakers will review it further. What’s more, Gov. Ivey vowed to monitor the progress of the proposal.

Currently, a proposal sponsored by Rep. Chris Blackshear calls for the expansion of gambling in Alabama. In reality, to do this, two different bills are needed: one that would amend the state’s constitution and another to establish gambling activities.

This year when Alabamians make their way to the ballot box, I hope they will be voting on another issue: Gaming. I believe the current proposal being contemplated by the Legislature is good for Alabama, and I will be carefully watching it move through the process,

wrote Gov. Kay Ivey

The Bill Will Help in the Fight against Illegal Gambling

Per the current draft bill about the gambling expansion, the state would authorize the development of casino gambling at different locations, as well as the establishment of a lottery. The legalization of online sports betting is also part of the proposal.

The last time residents in Alabama voted on a gambling proposal was more than two decades ago. Since then, different proposals have not gained much traction. While the new bill will be reviewed by lawmakers, its future remains uncertain. This is because its success is contingent on a majority approval from the state’s Senate and House along with a green light from Alabama’s voters.

According to Gov. Ivey, the proposal will help in the fight against illegal gambling. At the same time, she said, the bill would help deliver regulated forms of gambling and this includes lottery as well. “Thank you to Speaker Ledbetter and his leadership team for their hard work on this. Now is the time for Alabama voters to have another say on this issue,” added Gov. Ivey.

The gambling proposal still has a long way ahead of it. Yet, the support from the Governor sends a clear signal to the lawmakers about the importance of the matter.

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Michigan Gov. Whitmer Reappoints Two Members to MGCB Board https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/20/michigan-gov-whitmer-reappoints-two-members-to-mgcb-board/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/20/michigan-gov-whitmer-reappoints-two-members-to-mgcb-board/#respond Sat, 20 Jan 2024 11:18:00 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/20/michigan-gov-whitmer-reappoints-two-members-to-mgcb-board/ Joni M. Thrower Davis and Andrew T. Palms were reappointed as board members of the gambling regulator in Michigan, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Earlier this week, MGCB’s executive director, Henry Williams, confirmed the reappointment of the two. Initially, Palms was appointed to the MGCB by the now-former Gov. Rick [...]

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Joni M. Thrower Davis and Andrew T. Palms were reappointed as board members of the gambling regulator in Michigan, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Earlier this week, MGCB’s executive director, Henry Williams, confirmed the reappointment of the two.

Initially, Palms was appointed to the MGCB by the now-former Gov. Rick Snyder back in 2012. Considering his reappointment, he enters his 12th year as a member of the board of the gambling regulator. On the other hand, Davis first joined the MGCB as a board member at the start of 2020 after she was selected as the successor of Patrick M. McQueen. The reappointment starts Davis’ second four-year term.

According to the MGCB, the two board members were reappointed for a term that is set to expire on December 31, 2027. Currently, the board of the gambling regulator consists of five members who are residents of the state and are appointed by the Governor. Per the existing rules, one of the members is designated as a chairperson, a role that is currently held by Linda Forte. The recent reappointments reinstated Davis and Palms to the board who join Deidre A. Lambert-Bounds, another board member, while one member spot remains vacant.

The Duo Will Continue to Assist the Regulator

Palms, a Chelsea resident, currently holds a bachelor’s degree of general studies in computer science, business and engineering from the University of Michigan. For more than 30 years, he has worked at the university and currently serves as the executive director of ITS Infrastructure.

On the other hand, Davis is a Detroit resident. She holds a Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law along with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. Davis is currently a managing partner for Jamjomar while at the same time operating and owning four McDonald’s restaurants located in Detroit’s metropolitan area.

I appreciate Governor Whitmer’s decision to reappoint Joni and Andrew to the Board, which is well-deserved recognition of their dedication, expertise, and valuable contributions to our agency’s mission and vision.

Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB

Williams praised Gov. Whitmer’s decision to reappoint both Palms and Davis to MGCB’s board. He recognized their extensive expertise and dedication, making them invaluable assets to the regulator.

Williams predicted that the MGCB’s board will continue to make effective decisions and remain stable, boosted by the duo’s appointments. Finally, he said that the gambling regulator will continue to tackle emerging challenges within the sector across Michigan.

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NY Gov. Hochul Approves Seneca Tribal Compact Extension for Now https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/06/ny-gov-hochul-approves-seneca-tribal-compact-extension-for-now/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/06/ny-gov-hochul-approves-seneca-tribal-compact-extension-for-now/#respond Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:30:04 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/06/ny-gov-hochul-approves-seneca-tribal-compact-extension-for-now/ Gambling compacts have been at the core of gambling operations in some jurisdictions around the United States, with New York not any different, and the Empire State also running revenue-sharing agreements with tribal gaming establishments. Seneca Nation to Continue Running Gambling Business Operations The Seneca Nation in Western New York has a compact with New [...]

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Gambling compacts have been at the core of gambling operations in some jurisdictions around the United States, with New York not any different, and the Empire State also running revenue-sharing agreements with tribal gaming establishments.

Seneca Nation to Continue Running Gambling Business Operations

The Seneca Nation in Western New York has a compact with New York through December 9, 2023, which will now be temporarily renewed as confirmed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, with the revenue-sharing agreement extended through March 31, 2024

This agreement allows the Seneca Nation to continue running all of its three venues in the state, to wit Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino.

The compact negotiation is important, because under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, federally-recognized tribes may operate Class I and Class I gaming, but Class III gaming, which features table games and gives casinos their fully-fleshed look, is subject to additional red tape.

Commpacts have proven to be a very successful negotiation tactic in many places already. Florida, for example, has been able to launch sports gambling, effectively going around the need to amend its State Constitution by establishing an agreement with the Seminole Tribe of Florida to run sports betting out of tribal land to wield the entire online gambling industry in the state.

This was interestingly interpreted to also include online betting platforms that can be hosted on sovereign tribal land, and that have faced severe legal challenges. Yet, most of these have been dismissed with the Seminole Tribe now looking as a shoo-in.

Yet, Seneca Nation has not won a definite extension, but just bought time to continue negotiating with the state, as the governor and tribal leaders are butting heads over the tax payable by the tribe. New York has been known as one of the keenest jurisdictions to collect tax revenue from local gambling companies and business owners.

Negotiating Exclusivity in Times of Fast Market Liberalization

The compact is an important win for the tribe nevertheless, as the Seneca Nation wants to retain its exclusivity of table and slot games west of State Route 14, which guarantees it a good influx of revenue and no real competition at least in its chosen geography.

New York is also benefiting as the state claws 25% of the tribe’s gross gaming revenue, which generates a windfall of roughly $100 million for the state every year.

This rate, though, is now the subject to debate, as the Seneca Nation has cited the changing realities of new commercial casinos that are being built closer to its territories and effectively drawing business away from the tribal properties. Seneca hopes to pay a little less than its current 25% rate to remain competitive.

This is a tough sell in a state that already charges sports betting businesses with 51% on their gross gaming revenue.

Gov Hochul was also the subject of some criticism as her husband, William Hochul, was until recently working for Delaware North, a competitor to Seneca Nation’s gambling businesses, which made the governor reluctant to weigh in, recusing herself at first.

Her husband has since quit his position at Delaware North, allowing the governor to weigh in without any speculation about the fairness of her opinion.

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Lt. Gov. Patrick Highlights GOP Senate’s Opposition to Casinos in Texas https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/04/lt-gov-patrick-highlights-gop-senates-opposition-to-casinos-in-texas/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/04/lt-gov-patrick-highlights-gop-senates-opposition-to-casinos-in-texas/#respond Mon, 04 Dec 2023 20:32:06 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/12/04/lt-gov-patrick-highlights-gop-senates-opposition-to-casinos-in-texas/ Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, making a strong comeback after a month-long battle with pneumonia, spoke exclusively to CBS News Texas at the Capitol on December 1, emphasizing the lack of support among GOP senators for the introduction of casinos in Texas. Casino Controversy Amplifies as Mavericks’ Stake Sale Fuels Gambling Speculations Patrick stated that he [...]

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Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, making a strong comeback after a month-long battle with pneumonia, spoke exclusively to CBS News Texas at the Capitol on December 1, emphasizing the lack of support among GOP senators for the introduction of casinos in Texas.

Casino Controversy Amplifies as Mavericks’ Stake Sale Fuels Gambling Speculations

Patrick stated that he felt fine and mentioned that it would take him some time to regain 100% energy. He indicated that he was a long way from where he had been, addressing the progress of his health recovery.

While Patrick’s return to the Senate spotlighted the issue of casino gambling, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban‘s recent move to sell a majority stake to Miriam Adelson has intensified the debate. Adelson, the widow of casino tycoon Sheldon Adelson, shares Cuban’s vision of a new arena in downtown Dallas as part of a casino resort. However, any such venture in Texas necessitates a constitutional amendment.

In the interview, Patrick revealed that, based on his experience and knowledge, they were not even close to having 15 votes or 16 votes for casinos. He cited the lack of public outcry after rejected bills supporting casinos during the recent legislative session as evidence of the Senate’s stance.

The majority stake sale of the Dallas Mavericks to the Adelson family, known for their involvement in the casino industry, has sparked speculation about the potential expansion of gambling in Texas. 

Mark Cuban’s vision for resort casinos in the state, coupled with the Adelson family’s political influence and financial resources, could serve as a catalyst for advocating legislative changes. 

Patrick Points Fingers as Casino Debate and Legislative Delays Unfold

Patrick, however, emphasized the necessity for casino operators to independently garner support among House and Senate members. He dismissed the notion that Gov. Abbott, Speaker Dade Phelan, or he himself held the key to such decisions. He stated that significant changes do not occur overnight and stressed the importance of getting in the trenches and grinding it out.

In a surprising turn, Patrick blamed Speaker Phelan for the delay in addressing a constitutional challenge that threatens property tax cuts and increased funds for retired teachers. The Senate proposed and passed a bill, SB 6, aimed at expediting the court challenge, though a similar bill was not filed in the House, leading Patrick to accuse Phelan of negligence.

The ongoing clash between Patrick and Phelan escalated as the former accused the House of dysfunction. Amidst these disagreements, speculations about a potential fifth special session have arisen. When asked about it, Patrick cautiously suggested waiting until February 5, 30 days before the Texas primary election, for the most productive time to reconvene.

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GLI Hires Two HR Veterans to Strengthen Rapport with Gov and Tribal Agencies https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/14/gli-hires-two-hr-veterans-to-strengthen-rapport-with-gov-and-tribal-agencies/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/14/gli-hires-two-hr-veterans-to-strengthen-rapport-with-gov-and-tribal-agencies/#respond Fri, 14 Jul 2023 04:19:22 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/14/gli-hires-two-hr-veterans-to-strengthen-rapport-with-gov-and-tribal-agencies/ As a result, GLI is bringing in Joseph Bunveith who is going to work as VP of government relations and regulatory affairs. Another important appointment is in the face of Kelly Myers who will be working as director of government affairs. GLI president & CEO James Maida welcomed the new appointments with both of them [...]

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As a result, GLI is bringing in Joseph Bunveith who is going to work as VP of government relations and regulatory affairs. Another important appointment is in the face of Kelly Myers who will be working as director of government affairs.

GLI president & CEO James Maida welcomed the new appointments with both of them having experience in the respective field they are going to represent. Maida said:

At GLI, we are continually planning for the future of this exciting and dynamic industry. These proven leaders in their new positions enable us to serve our clients even better in both technology and regulatory advice, empowering our clients to face the future armed with the best possible information and insights.  

GLI president & CEO James Maida

The firm is confident that it is making the right decision as it will be able to navigate and enhance its understanding of government and regulatory affairs as it goes along. This will bring more ability for partners to interact with agencies from both sectors.

GLI Brings the Right Veterans in the Right Places

Both appointments are smart additions and seasoned industry veterans – although not limited to the gambling industry necessarily. Bunveith for example has worked with a number of prominent companies to achieve product launches across Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Steam, and Facebook App.

He has a strong track record in helping develop fantasy sports online gaming platforms and is joined by Myres who has more than 17 years in tribal gaming regulation. She is uniquely capable to deliver on significant results for her company and has worked as compliance and licensing manager for the Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission.

She has similarly collaborated with other tribal nations, including the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma Gaming Commission and the Oklahoma Tribal Gaming Regulators Association.

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Controversy Surrounds Casino Negotiations Involving Gov. Hochul’s Office https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/04/controversy-surrounds-casino-negotiations-involving-gov-hochuls-office/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/04/controversy-surrounds-casino-negotiations-involving-gov-hochuls-office/#respond Tue, 04 Jul 2023 07:36:57 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/07/04/controversy-surrounds-casino-negotiations-involving-gov-hochuls-office/ Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York has stressed yet again her detachment from the ongoing negotiations between her office and the Seneca Nation concerning a potential casino in the Rochester area. However, she emphasized that she is not directly participating in the negotiations, the timing decisions, or engaging in discussions with external individuals regarding this [...]

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Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York has stressed yet again her detachment from the ongoing negotiations between her office and the Seneca Nation concerning a potential casino in the Rochester area. However, she emphasized that she is not directly participating in the negotiations, the timing decisions, or engaging in discussions with external individuals regarding this matter at the moment.

Local Leaders Surprised by Casino Deal Talks Involving Gov. Hochul’s Office

Speaking during the grand reopening ceremony at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, Gov. Hochul clarified that she had recused herself from the negotiations and would be informed of the details alongside the public, reported 13WHAM ABC.

The negotiations have sparked controversy and raised eyebrows among local leaders and lawmakers, who were surprised to learn about the talks involving a casino deal. The governor’s office has been handling the compact talks on behalf of Gov. Hochul due to her recusal from matters related to Delaware North, the company where her husband is employed as the senior vice president and general counsel.

The previous announcement of a new tribal gaming agreement between the governor’s office and the Seneca Nation, which potentially included a Las Vegas-style resort casino in Rochester, sparked criticism for not involving relevant state lawmakers and local officials in the negotiations.

Governor Hochul Allegedly Stalling Compact Renewal for Corporate Benefit

Following the refusal of the New York Assembly to pass a statute authorizing Gov. Hochul to sign the Seneca contract, the Seneca Nation’s President, Rickey Armstrong Sr., accused the governor of deliberately stalling the compact renewal, which could benefit Delaware North.

Despite the setback, Gov. Hochul assured that discussions with the Seneca Nation are still ongoing. She emphasized her commitment to seeking a good outcome for all parties involved and working with an outstanding team on the matter.

As negotiations continue, lawmakers from Rochester have expressed their concerns regarding the potential impact of a casino project in the area. The Greater Rochester Majority Delegation has been engaging with all relevant parties, including the Governor’s office, local stakeholders, and the Mayor’s office, to ensure that any agreement between the Seneca Nation and New York State is transparent and well-informed.

In May, the Seneca Nation sought public support for a fair gaming compact as their current agreement with New York State is set to expire in December. They organized community support events throughout May, encouraging people to sign letters to state leaders, urging them to expedite the negotiation process and sign a new deal before the end of the State Legislature session on June 8. The Nation emphasizes its positive economic impact in the region, with three casino properties employing around 3,000 people and providing significant indirect support to the local economy.

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Oregon Gov. Kotek Opposes Tribal Casino Expansion https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/15/oregon-gov-kotek-opposes-tribal-casino-expansion/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/15/oregon-gov-kotek-opposes-tribal-casino-expansion/#respond Sat, 15 Apr 2023 04:13:42 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/15/oregon-gov-kotek-opposes-tribal-casino-expansion/ Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek officially declared her position on the hot topic of gambling expansion, explicitly stating that her office would not support any form of gambling expansion in the state. A Topic of Great Interest Gov. Kotek sent a letter to all nine recognized Indigenous tribes and the Oregon Lottery Thursday to address gaming, [...]

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Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek officially declared her position on the hot topic of gambling expansion, explicitly stating that her office would not support any form of gambling expansion in the state.

A Topic of Great Interest

Gov. Kotek sent a letter to all nine recognized Indigenous tribes and the Oregon Lottery Thursday to address gaming, the “topic of great interest to tribes, legislators, and communities” and explain her general position or policy on gaming and whether her office would support any form of gambling expansion.

The formal reason for the letter was the continuous push of the Coquille Tribe to build its second casino in Medford, setting a breakaway from past governors’ policies of one tribal gaming facility per tribe on reservation land.

“There is also the Coquille’s Tribe application to the Department of Interior and Bureau of Indian Affairs to have land in Medford taken into trust for the purpose of gaming (Class II),” Kotek wrote in the letter that was also addressed to the US Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland, and Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland.

Statewide Negative Impact

A new casino in Medford will impact negatively all of Oregon’s tribes which are highly dependent on casino gaming revenue to fund public services for tribal citizens such as housing, education, healthcare, social services, and others. There will be a negative impact on tribes in Northern California, too.

“This proposal would not only lead to the expansion of gaming in the area but would create many more concerns about the expansion of gaming statewide,” she continued before siding with former Gov. John Kitzhaber and former Gov. Kate Brown who both sent letters to the BIA “in opposition to this gaming proposal.”

According to the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, building a casino in Medford which is just 70 miles away from the tribe’s Seven Feathers Casino Resort will result in a 25% reduction in Cow Creek tribal government services.

The final say on whether to approve placing land for the Coquille tribe’s casino project will rest on the US Department of the Interior and Bureau of Indian Affairs and Secretary Haaland was in Bend last month to meet with Oregon’s tribal leaders.

I wanted to provide this clarification of my Tribal gaming policy so that Tribes, the federal government and local entities know where I stand.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek

Kotek explicitly stated she favors “one gaming facility per tribe on reservation land.”

In January, there were reports that state legislators would take a closer look at gambling expansion in 2023 but any legislative initiative would be dead in the water without having Gov. Kotek on board.

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TX Lt. Gov opposed to gambling will “kill bill” in the Senate if 15 GOP don’t support https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/07/tx-lt-gov-opposed-to-gambling-will-kill-bill-in-the-senate-if-15-gop-dont-support/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/07/tx-lt-gov-opposed-to-gambling-will-kill-bill-in-the-senate-if-15-gop-dont-support/#respond Fri, 07 Apr 2023 17:55:53 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/07/tx-lt-gov-opposed-to-gambling-will-kill-bill-in-the-senate-if-15-gop-dont-support/ Bills are making their way through House committees and support for expanded gambling venues and sports betting in Texas is at an all-time high. However, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is the president of the Senate and he has no appetite for legalized gambling in the state – unless it is a Republican idea with broad [...]

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political_chill_pill_for_commercial_gambling_in_texasBills are making their way through House committees and support for expanded gambling venues and sports betting in Texas is at an all-time high. However, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is the president of the Senate and he has no appetite for legalized gambling in the state – unless it is a Republican idea with broad GOP support in the Senate.

The Texas House State Affairs Committee recently approved two bills to be sent to the floor of the House for a vote, opening a path for them to be acted on by the Senate and potentially signed into law by the Governor. Governor Abbot has had a sort of fluid response to the issue of expanded gambling – once “wholeheartedly” opposed to it, then open to letting voters decide, and now seemingly leaning more toward sportsbetting but not too excited about casinos.

Charlie Geren (R-Fort Worth) saw his House Joint Resolution (HJR) 155 approved first and then Rep. John Kuempel’s (R-Seguin) saw his House Bill (HB) 2843 make it through the committee as supporting legislation. The companion bills would authorize destination casino resorts in limited numbers and at specific locations based on the population if Texas voters approve of the idea.

Bills Would Allow Voters to Decide

The bills lay out important frameworks for liberalized gambling in the state which is currently illegal and only allowed grudgingly on Native lands that the state has no control over. The legislation would simply allow voters in Texas to approve a constitutional amendment in November that would allow commercial gambling.

The current bills would allow for two casinos in the Dallas and Fort Worth area along with six others elsewhere in the state.

Some reports indicate that at least 75% of Texans favor being given the choice to decide for themselves. That doesn’t mean that three-quarters of all voting residents favor casino gambling or sports betting, only that they want to decide the issue for themselves.

Rep. Jeff Leach (R-Plano) got his mobile sports betting bill through the committee as well as a separate piece of legislation. This law would set a licensing fee of half a million dollars for mobile sportsbetting sites and levy a 10% tax on revenues.

In a March hearing on the Leach bill, the lawmaker said it would advance “freedom and liberty” in the state and empower tax collectors to make money for the state on an activity that already goes on anyway.

There are hundreds of our constituents — citizens of all ages, including minors — who right now, especially with March Madness, are placing unsafe, <sic> unsecure, illegal, criminal bets very easily,” Leach said.

Multiple local media outlets reported earlier this week that Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick was making the rounds on state broadcasting networks to make the case against any gambling bills lawmakers might be entertaining. According to his own words, it’s not so much a matter of whether or not Texans want to choose, but which side of the aisle the bills originate from or at least who supports them.

Lt. Gov Claims There is No Support for Voter Choice in Senate

According to Texomashomepage.com, the Senate president took a swipe at the House efforts saying there was “zero support” for the idea in the Senate even though one of his top allies in the Senate, a Republican, is sponsoring Senate Joint Resolution 39 – a constitutional amendment to allow sports betting if voters were to approve it during the next election.

Our members have been clear: they’re not in support today. We don’t have any votes in the Senate,” Patrick said. “Couldn’t find one Senator who supported it.”

Playing partisan hardball, Patrick reportedly said: “Unless I have 15 to 16 Republicans, meaning it’s a Republican-driven bill because we’re a Republican-driven state, I’m not bringing a bill to the floor,” he said. “I need Republican consensus otherwise, it’s a Democrat bill.

The Lt. Governor’s political posturing has not slowed down the push to let the people decide and it hasn’t dampened the drive to get the business taken care of. The Texas Destination Resort Alliance issued a statement in support of the bills making it through committee.

Matt Hirsch, a spokesperson for the Alliance said: “The efforts to bring destination resorts to Texas made significant progress with today’s vote. Texans have made it clear that they want destination resorts in Texas, and we are now one step closer to ultimately allowing them to decide on this issue.”

Dallas Mavericks owner, Mark Cuban has indicated he’d be open to moving his team to a new home when his current long-term lease comes to an end. A casino resort in Dallas would be an ideal location for the NBA franchise.

There are two very small slots/bingo casinos in the state including Naskila Casino near Livingston. The largest casino is also a native operation near the Mexican border at Eagle’s Pass. Legislation has been written to protect Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino from too much competition all at once by authorizing the tribe to operate any type of game or gambling a commercial operation is allowed to offer.

It’s estimated that Texans leave over $5 billion a year in out-of-state casinos and tribal gambling venues. Millions of visitor trips a year are logged to Oklahoma and other neighboring states with more liberal gambling laws.

Source: Texas House State Affairs Committee passes two bills on resort casinos and mobile sportsbetting, G3 NewsWire, April 5, 2023

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Gov. Beshear Signs HB 551 into Law, Legalizes Sports Betting in Kentucky https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/03/gov-beshear-signs-hb-551-into-law-legalizes-sports-betting-in-kentucky/ https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/03/gov-beshear-signs-hb-551-into-law-legalizes-sports-betting-in-kentucky/#respond Mon, 03 Apr 2023 12:18:07 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2023/04/03/gov-beshear-signs-hb-551-into-law-legalizes-sports-betting-in-kentucky/ Kentucky has officially passed a law that legalizes sports betting in the state. House Bill 551 was introduced a few weeks ago and quickly gained traction, passing the House, a Senate committee and later the Senate itself. Last Friday, just a few hours after the Senate approved the measure, Governor Andy Beshear signed it into [...]

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Kentucky has officially passed a law that legalizes sports betting in the state. House Bill 551 was introduced a few weeks ago and quickly gained traction, passing the House, a Senate committee and later the Senate itself.

Last Friday, just a few hours after the Senate approved the measure, Governor Andy Beshear signed it into law, cementing the foray of sports betting into the Bluegrass state.

Despite the strong support for the bill, some had doubts about its passing. Representative Michael Meredith, one of the biggest supporters of legal betting in the state, remained cautiously optimistic throughout the process.

Luckily, HB 551 had no trouble passing through the house and was quickly cleared by a Senate committee. The Senate itself finally passed the measure with 25 votes. For reference, the bill needed at least 23 votes to pass.

HB 551 follows prior measures that have tried to introduce sports betting in Kentucky. Unfortunately, last year’s bill missed its mark, despite reaching the Senate.

The approval of HB 551 attests to the growing popularity of sports betting in the United States. 2022 was a record year for America’s gambling industry, with many analysts believing that 2023 will be an even stronger year. With this in mind, it is hardly surprising that more and more states are mulling the legalization of the vertical and capitalizing on its expanding presence.

Beshear Says It Was High Time to Legalize Betting

Kentucky’s Governor addressed the matter, saying that it was high time for the state to pass sports betting.

In a press conference, the Governor pointed out that he has supported the introduction of legal sports betting for years. According to Beshear, this new law will allow Kentucky to be competitive and on par with its neighboring states.

If Kentucky has its own sports betting ecosystem, gamblers will be able to play without visiting Ohio, Indiana or West Virginia. Thanks to this, Kentucky money will not leak into other states.

After years of urging action, sports betting will be legal in Kentucky. We made it happen. This industry will bring new jobs, tourism and growth.

Governor Andy Beshear

Now that HB 551 has been officially written into law, Kentucky’s horse racing tracks will be allowed to open retail sportsbooks. Each of them will be able to team up with up to three online sports betting companies as well. Kentucky will, therefore, be able to have up to 27 legal online sportsbooks.

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