Delay Granting License

Missouri Gaming Commissioners,

Please find attached the study by St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank economists concerning the negative effect of the Illinois smoking ban on casino revenues. These economists determined that casino revenues plunged 20 percent due to the smoking ban. Even casinos in the middle of the state were hurt. How could a Cape Girardeau casino subjected to a smoking ban escape a similar ill effect?

Commissioners, it would be wise to not grant a license for a Cape Girardeau casino until the smoking ban issue in Cape Girardeau has been resolved. Though smoking bans have rarely been defeated at the ballot box, a smoking ban in Cape Girardeau could be defeated by a strong effort from casino supporters. Whether casino supporters will join and help fund a successful campaign against the proposed smoking ban remains to be seen.