Missouri Video Lottery Terminals Face Scrutiny as Attorney General Initiates Probe
Attorney General Launches Investigation on Missouri Video Lottery Terminals
Missouri’s Attorney General, Catherine Hanaway, has announced a comprehensive investigation into the state’s video lottery terminals (VLTs). While she expressed openness to the possibility of legalizing these machines in the future, she emphasized that action will be taken to regulate them until any legalization occurs.
Understanding Missouri’s Video Lottery Terminals and the Concerns
Video lottery terminals are a contentious form of gambling-like devices that have sparked debate across multiple states. Although they resemble traditional slot machines, VLTs exploit regulatory loopholes that have, until now, prevented them from being officially classified as gambling machines.
These terminals are widely accessible, commonly found in everyday locations such as convenience stores, restaurants, and gas stations. This easy availability has raised concerns among regulators who argue that VLTs not only compete unfairly with licensed casinos but also increase the risk of harm to players by circumventing gambling regulations.
Recently, Missouri authorities, led by Attorney General Hanaway, initiated legal action against VLTs operated by Torch Electronics after a local court deemed them illegal. The ongoing investigation aims to closely review the machines, their placement, quantities, and the associated financial transactions to determine effective enforcement measures.
It is estimated that approximately 25,000 of these terminals operate throughout Missouri.
Potential Legalization of Video Lottery Terminals in Missouri
Parallel to the investigative efforts, Missouri legislators are considering a bill that would grant legal status to VLTs and establish clear regulatory guidelines for their operation. Hanaway has conveyed that she would respect any lawful changes enacted by the legislature but will continue to uphold current laws until such reforms are adopted.
Her objections to VLTs stem primarily from legal concerns — the unregulated nature of these machines results in a significant loss of revenue for the state, potentially amounting to billions, and raises risks of criminal activities developing in connection with their operation.
Efforts to control VLTs in Missouri have encountered resistance, particularly from Torch Electronics, which has invested heavily in legal defense and lobbying to protect its interests. Despite these challenges, official crackdowns and legalization attempts have thus far reached an impasse.
Meanwhile, Torch Electronics’ spokesperson, Gregg Keller, stated that the company has not yet been contacted by investigators but expressed willingness to cooperate fully if approached.
