Missouri Sports Betting Faces Setback Due to Recurring VLT Issue

Missouri’s sports betting industry has been facing a major setback due to the recurring issue of video lottery terminals (VLTs). The state’s lawmakers have been struggling to come up with a solution to this problem, which has been causing delays in the launch of sports betting in the state.

The issue of VLTs has been a contentious one in Missouri for several years now. VLTs are electronic gaming machines that resemble slot machines, but they are not considered to be slot machines under Missouri law. Instead, they are classified as “games of skill,” which means that they are not subject to the same regulations as traditional slot machines.

This classification has been a point of contention for many lawmakers and industry stakeholders in Missouri. Some argue that VLTs are essentially slot machines in disguise and should be subject to the same regulations as other forms of gambling. Others argue that VLTs are a legitimate form of gaming that should be allowed to operate without excessive regulation.

The issue has come to a head in recent months as Missouri lawmakers have been working to legalize sports betting in the state. Sports betting was legalized in Missouri in 2018, but the industry has yet to launch due to various regulatory issues, including the VLT issue.

The problem is that many of the companies that are interested in launching sports betting in Missouri also operate VLTs. These companies are concerned that if VLTs are subject to more regulation, it could hurt their bottom line and make it more difficult for them to operate in the state.

As a result, lawmakers have been struggling to find a solution that satisfies all parties involved. Some have proposed allowing VLTs to operate under the same regulations as slot machines, while others have proposed creating a new regulatory framework specifically for VLTs.

Despite these efforts, the issue remains unresolved, and it is unclear when sports betting will be able to launch in Missouri. This has been frustrating for industry stakeholders who are eager to enter the market and start generating revenue.

In the meantime, neighboring states like Illinois and Iowa have already launched sports betting, which means that Missouri is losing out on potential revenue. This has put pressure on lawmakers to find a solution to the VLT issue as soon as possible.

Overall, the issue of VLTs in Missouri is a complex one that will require careful consideration and collaboration between lawmakers and industry stakeholders. Until a solution is found, the state’s sports betting industry will continue to face delays and setbacks.