Most forms of gambling are currently illegal within state borders. Class III gaming, which includes most traditional Las Vegas-style casino gaming options, is prohibited, which is why there are no commercial casinos. However, there are two regular casinos, but they are glorified bingo halls, limited to only Class II games. These tribal traits are the only forms of legal gambling.
According to a report from Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, The study will look at the potential for legal gambling, including casinos, sports betting and the state lottery.
In the face of a large budget deficit, the government Mike Dunleavy began to change the tune of the case. In January, during his State of the State speech, Dunleavy expressed support for gambling.
“I will support legislation to bring games to Alaska. Th estate can no longer afford to deny itself an income stream available to almost every other state in the nation,” Dunleavy said.
“In addition to increasing revenue, gambling can create hundreds of high-paying jobs in some of our communities, and we want to join a long list of states that have embraced gambling for some time,” Dunleavy added.
The governor went on to hire a consultant to lead the study supported by the Revenue Department, which will suggest the best locations for a possible Alaskan casino and find out how many tourists could be attracted to them, as well as how much new tax revenue could be raised.
The study is expected to be completed by December, but according to Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman, the state has the option to extend it to next year.
Dunleavy told lawmakers he wanted them to work on possible gambling legislation for the special session in August. Given the time frame for the study, and Dunleavy’s lack of focus on potential disadvantage, next year seems like a more sensible goal for any legislative action.
Source: GMB
