RIVERBOAT GAMBLING NEEDS VOTERS' HELP AT POLLS

On Nov. 8, for the third time in two years, Missourians statewide will vote on a major riverboat gambling issue. The vote is a result of a Supreme Court decision last winter holding that the Missouri Constitution didn't authorize games of chance but merely games of skill to be played on the riverboats Missourians had approved in 1992.

Games of chance, especially slot machines, are the principal sources of revenue from riverboats, accounting for as much as 60 or 70 percent in most cases. The gaming industry, having already invested considerable sums in Missouri, is determined to try to win constitutional approval for games of chance. This will be the make-or-break vote.

Gaming industry players such as the Boyd Group, selected by the Cape Girardeau City Council for a riverboat development here, have made it clear their plans are on hold pending the voters' decision on Amendment 6. If the decision is no, their plans to invest here will be history. On the few Missouri boats currently operating, major layoffs have begun due to revenue below expectations. This will only worsen unless Missourians say yes to Amendment 6 and approve the games of chance.

This is an issue of economic development. Another potential company in a different industry, enjoying an excellent reputation and planning to spend tens of millions of dollars on redevelopment of the downtown area would be welcomed enthusiastically. Missourians will have to decide whether they want to limp along with the mistakes that have resulted in a third-rate gaming industry or whether this industry will have what it needs to thrive. Further, Gov. Carnahan has already included some $70 million in gaming revenue in budgets for coming fiscal years. Missourians should vote yes on Amendment 6.