Provides relative to video poker (EG INCREASE SD RV See Note)
The bill modifies existing laws, expanding opportunities for businesses that encompass video draw poker devices, which could enhance revenue generation for these entities. It mandates that any franchise fee revenue generated in the fiscal year exceeding the prior year will be allocated to the Video Draw Poker Device Purse Supplement Fund, which is intended to support the horse racing industry in Louisiana. This reallocation signifies a strategic move to bolster both the gaming sector and the associated horse racing activities through financial support.
House Bill 540 aims to amend various regulations pertaining to video draw poker devices in Louisiana. It proposes increases in the number of devices permitted at specific establishments, such as bars, truck stops, and hotels, reflecting a significant shift in the state's approach to gaming regulation. Specifically, it allows alcoholic beverage facilities to operate up to four devices, truck stops to operate up to sixty, and hotels to have an increased number of devices across their lounges and overall. The bill also specifies criteria for establishments to qualify for additional machines based on revenue thresholds.
The sentiment around HB 540 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the expansion of video draw poker devices at local establishments will increase economic activity and provide necessary funding for the horse racing industry, which is a significant part of Louisiana’s cultural heritage. Conversely, there may be concerns raised by community members or local governance about the potential over-saturation of gambling in residential areas, leading to societal implications.
Notable points of contention center on the location restrictions imposed on offtrack wagering facilities, which cannot operate within one mile of certain properties deemed to have historical or public significance. This aspect is likely to present challenges for new establishments looking to enter the market, creating a debate around the balance between economic opportunity and preserving communal landscapes. Overall, the bill proposes significant regulatory changes that reflect an evolving stance on gaming in Louisiana.