RIVERBOAT SECURITY IS BIG CONSIDERATION FOR GOOD REGULATION

The lawsuit contends that 72 troopers who also hold commissions as gaming agents are doing so in violation of state laws and, as a result of their riverboat duties, have decreased enforcement of Missouri's traffic laws.

The technical questions raised by the lawsuit will be resolved by a judge. But the practical issues are fairly clear. When the Missouri Gaming Commission licensed its first riverboats, a prime consideration was keeping the operations within the strict confines of gambling laws. Moreover, the troopers on the riverboats protect the public's interest in operations that must be kept free of fraud and the ever-present danger of high-level criminal involvement.

Although the assignment of the 72 troopers -- there are still 923 uniformed officers on the state's highways -- resulted in a slight reduction in patrol strength, some of those positions already have been replaced, and new officers are being trained.

The gaming commission's concern about good law enforcement on the gambling riverboats is well-placed. The expense is borne by the riverboat operators who receive monthly billings.

It can be hoped that the judge in this case will value the need for good law enforcement on the riverboats over the complaint of a retired trooper who says he is only interested in protecting taxpayers. The gaming commission's expectation that the needed security will be funded by the riverboat operators is taking care of that.