Bill > HB1251

This bill modifies provisions related to illegal gambling by expanding the authority and responsibilities of various state agencies to combat gambling activities. The bill gives the supervisor of liquor control the power to refer suspected illegal gambling to law enforcement agencies and requires license suspension or revocation for establishments possessing gambling devices. The Missouri Gaming Commission is now required to establish a telephone hotline for reporting illegal gambling and must refer such reports to the Missouri State Highway Patrol for investigation. The bill also broadens the definition of gambling devices to include machines with random number generators and coin or cash prize mechanisms not approved by the state lottery or gaming commissions. Additionally, the legislation provides that any person or establishment convicted of a gambling violation could be permanently prohibited from participating in potential future video lottery gaming programs. The bill includes provisions for local law enforcement to notify state agencies about gambling investigations and allows the attorney general to assist in prosecuting such cases. The emergency clause of the bill emphasizes the urgent need to eliminate illegal gambling activities in the state, making the act effective immediately upon passage.

Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1251&year=2025&code=R