House bill passes that would allow gamblers to take out tokens on credit
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House bill passes that would allow gamblers to take out tokens on credit

Date: April 22, 2013
By: Katie Kreider
State Capitol Bureau
Links: HB 747

Intro: 
The House passed a bill on Monday which attempts to use casinos as a way to generate more state revenue.
RunTime:  0:40
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: The bill would allow gamblers to take out tokens and coins on credit...but only if they can meet certain requirements.

In order for gamblers to receive the loans, they must first pass a credit check administered by the casino.

Republican Representative Myron Neth says this will bring more revenue into the state through events like poker tournaments.

Actuality:  NETH2.WAV
Run Time:  00:07
Description: "I want the other states' money, okay? I'd rather it be in Missouri than in their own states."

But other lawmakers expressed concern that the new law would make a profit at the expense of exploiting Missouri's low income citizens who apply for these credits.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Katie Kreider.

Intro: 
The Missouri House passed a bill on Monday targeting gamblers in an attmept to bring in more state revenue.
RunTime:  0:44
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: The bill would allow gamblers to take out tokens and coins on credit if they meet certain requirements.  

The bill states gamblers can not take out these loans until they pass a credit test administered by the casino.

Those who oppose the bill say it will take advantage of lower-income gamblers who will not be able to pay back their loans.

But Republican Representative Myron Neth says that is not the case.

Actuality:  NETH3.WAV
Run Time:  00:11
Description: "They will not extend this credit unless they know they are going to get paid back. So the idea that this is somehow praying on the poor or the disadvantaged is completely untrue."

Bill sponsor Dwight Scharnhorst says the bill would bring more revenue to the state through poker tournaments.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Katie Kreider.