JEFFERSON CITY — The Senate Select Committee on Gaming voted unanimously Wednesday against a bill regulating “no chance” slot machines that are popular in gas stations and convenience stores.
The move effectively ends efforts to provide a legal pathway for the machines to operate in the state.
House Bill 2989, sponsored by Rep. Bill Hardwick, R- Dixon, would have created a statewide system to regulate video lottery terminals, often described as “slot machine-like” devices found in gas stations, bars and truck stops.
Under HB 2989, the “Missouri Video Lottery Regulatory Act,” would have established a regulatory licensing and taxing system for these machines. It also would have authorized the State Lottery Commission to license distributors, operators and retailers.
The bill narrowly passed in the House in February after significant debate, reflecting mixed opinions from lawmakers over whether regulation or prohibition is the best approach.
The issue has gained urgency following legal scrutiny of the machines’ status, with courts and regulators questioning whether the devices truly operate without chance.
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has prioritized enforcing a ban on the illegal machines. She said in an interview Wednesday that she will enforce the law, and it's up to the legislature to change it.
Hanaway estimates a $1 billion illegal slot industry annually, which she said attracts organized crime.
“Where these machines are located, you also tend to find, not always, but you do tend to find 7OH or illegal hemp or cannabis being sold, and then they become gathering places for people who are engaged in some of those more violent crimes,” Hanaway said.
Hanaway started enforcement actions earlier this year against companies that own the machines and convenience stores that allow them in their places of business. Torch Electronics agreed to shut down its machines early last month to avoid prosecution.
Despite passing in the House, the bill was shut swiftly down in the Senate, where legalization or regulation efforts have failed over several years.
Senate Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin, R-Shelbina, chaired the special Senate committee. She is a fierce opponent of general gambling. She had expressed no appetite for the proposed legislation.
With the legislative session ending May 15, the committee’s decision likely marks the final movement for the proposal this year.
Sawyer Bess contributed to this story.