Governor Rolls The Dice On Education Funding

Governor Bob Holden makes it clear in his State of the State Address that education is his top priority. And, he’s rolling the dice with his plans to finance education. Proceeds from gambling play an important role in Governor Holden’s proposal to fully fund public education’s foundation formula. He says ideas such as increasing casino admission fees by a dollar and removing the current500-dollar loss limit would bring in much needed revenues.Missouri is the only state that employs a loss limit. The Governor says changing the rules would only require consent of the Legislature and his signature. The idea has its critics. But the Governor says they can argue whilehe does what he believes is in the best interests of public education. The Governor also wants to introduce a new lottery game as a means of generating revenue – one similar to keno, which is popular in Las Vegas.