Colin Minehart

In a time when our State is faced with many tough economic decisions, a number of ideas for determining new revenue streams have been brought forth.

Thursday, January 24, 2002

In a time when our State is faced with many tough economic decisions, a number of ideas for determining new revenue streams have been brought forth. Some proposals would place additional taxes on food, beverages and services. Another would produce a private casino within the Twin Cities metro area. Yet another promotes the building of a new state-owned casino.

The Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association (MLBA) is a non-profit trade organization representing approximately 2,000 business owners as retailers of beverage alcohol throughout the State.

Every one of the current proposals would have a negative impact on our members and more importantly, the communities that they serve. No one in this state wants to pay more taxes. A private casino within the metro would transfer even more entertainment dollars from rural areas already facing hard times. A state-owned casino not only poses new questions about tribal sovereignty, but exposes everyone in Minnesota to the liability of actually building another casino in a state-wide market where only a handful are flourishing.

With a sixty-year history of operation, we have learned that solution-based thinking and common sense are two important ingredients for economic success. Our unique plan involves a partnership between state, local and tribal governments, working with MLBA members and all beverage alcohol retailers throughout the state.

Installing up to five video lottery machines in establishments with an active license history of at least three years is the answer. Tribal governments keep their control over video gaming, the machines are networked through the existing operating systems of the State Lottery, and the Division of Alcohol and Gaming Enforcement would continue to oversee and enforce state gambling laws as it currently does. In addition, we recommend a ten-year sunset be included, insuring that the citizens of Minnesota would be able to evaluate the program and its impact on our State.

This plan would generate between three hundred million and five hundred million dollars per year. It could be up and running in a relatively short time, providing needed dollars for economic infrastructure and environmental health issues at all levels of government in Minnesota.

The MLBA’s proposal has been introduced for review during the upcoming legislative session. It makes the most sense with the least liability. It distributes revenues throughout the entire state. Those wishing to make the smart decision are encouraged to contact their legislators and express their support.