The recent attempt to introduce new casinos in North Carolina through the state budget met its demise, but for proponents of the gambling industry, this could be just a temporary setback. North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore acknowledged the “doomed” outcome of the proposal but hinted that it might see another day in the upcoming legislative session in 2024.
Push for New Casinos and Video Lottery Terminals
The idea behind the proposal was to authorize four new casinos and permit video lottery terminals in establishments like bars and restaurants. House Speaker Tim Moore reiterated his support for this initiative, believing that it makes sense for the state. However, he expressed concerns about the process through which the proposal was introduced.
Rushed Process and Lack of Input
One of the significant criticisms revolved around the haste with which the gambling proposal was added to the state budget. Senate leader Phil Berger advocated for its inclusion, and the details emerged just days before the budget’s public release. This left some Republicans, particularly in the state House of Representatives, feeling uninformed and lacking an opportunity to provide input.
The state budget follows an all-or-nothing voting system, preventing amendments once it reaches the floor for consideration. Moore believes that the rushed approach hindered the proposal’s success. He pointed out that there were potential supporters who might have endorsed it as a standalone bill but felt excluded from the process.
Future Prospects for the Casino Proposal
While the recent setback might be a disappointment, House Speaker Moore suggested that there could be a chance for the casino proposal to resurface. He indicated that this would likely occur during the short legislative session in 2024, following the primary election scheduled for March.
Moore reiterated his support for the concept and suggested that those backing the proposal should focus on gaining additional support in the coming months if they intend to make another attempt at passing it. He encouraged proponents to address the concerns and uncertainties that had arisen during the previous debate.
He emphasized that rational and fact-based discussions, rather than emotional reactions, would be essential to build broader support for the proposal. In this light, a clearer specification of how the generated revenue would be allocated, beyond bolstering the state’s general fund or offsetting tax cuts, might help garner more legislative support.
Specifics of the Proposed Legislation
The legislation that was recently introduced outlined the establishment of four casinos. One of these was intended for Lumbee tribal land, while the other three were expected to be located in Nash, Anson, and Rockingham counties. The proposed bill also set forth specific criteria for these potential casino locations.
Recent Developments and Implications
Last month, North Carolina Republican legislative leaders made the decision to abandon their efforts to expand legal gambling in the state. Instead, they chose to pass the final budget without including the provisions for the casinos. Ultimately, the government approved the new $30 billion budget for the fiscal year 2023-24, with the gambling proposals being put on hold.
Despite the current pause in the casino expansion plans, the hope and determination of those in favor of the gambling industry remain undeterred. The coming months and the legislative session in 2024 could bring new opportunities for North Carolina to reconsider and potentially embrace the casino proposal once more. Only time will reveal the fate of legalized gambling in the state.
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