Proposal would let towns vote on expanding gambling

22 October 2008

As reported by The (Colorado Springs) Gazette: "Supporters of Amendment 50 say it's time to roll the dice on expanding gambling in the three Colorado towns where it is permitted.

"The amendment would allow the state's three gambling towns to raise the stakes for table games twentyfold, from $5 to $100 a hand, expand casino operations to 24 hours a day and add new games to the mix, such as roulette and craps. The state estimates the expanded gambling would bring in as much as $300 million in its first five years, most of which would be directed toward state community colleges, who have been hit hard by budget cuts.

"The amendment would be a boost to the casino industry, which is struggling through its worst year since gambling was legalized in 1991 thanks to the slow economy, gas prices and a statewide smoking ban that was extended to cover casinos this year.

"Opponents say that the amendment will bring pressure to build new casinos and expand gambling beyond the three towns that currently legalize it..."