U.S. voters to decide on key gambling initiatives in multiple states

Voters across several U.S. states will cast ballots on various gambling-related measures on Tuesday, from expanding casino licenses to legalizing sports betting. The ballot questions could shape the future of gaming and its tax revenue distribution in Arkansas, Missouri, Colorado, Virginia, and Maryland.

Arkansas voters will decide on two gambling-related issues. Issue 1 proposes expanding the state’s lottery scholarship program to cover students attending career and technical schools, a move supporters say would broaden educational access beyond traditional colleges. 

Meanwhile, Issue 2 seeks to repeal a contentious casino license in Pope County and mandate local elections for future casino licenses. The measure has faced both opposition and support, with some residents advocating for community control over casino development.

Missouri is seeing heightened interest from voters on gambling issues, particularly with Amendment 2, which would legalize sports betting with a 10% tax on wagering revenue, directed toward education and compulsive gambling prevention programs. Backed by major sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals, the proposal faces tight opposition as current polling shows close margins.

Missourians will also vote on Amendment 5, a measure allowing an additional casino license near the popular Lake of the Ozarks tourist area. Proponents argue this would boost tourism, but opponents are wary of expanding casino operations beyond current state restrictions along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. 

Colorado voters will weigh in on Proposition JJ, which proposes redirecting excess tax revenue from sports betting to water conservation efforts. Currently, tax revenue exceeding a $29 million cap is refunded to betting operators, but the proposition seeks to allocate additional funds toward environmental initiatives. 

In Virginia, Petersburg residents will decide on a proposed $1.4 billion casino-resort by The Cordish Companies. The casino project, initially slated for Richmond but rejected by voters there, promises $2.8 billion in economic impact and significant tax revenue over the next decade. While proponents cite economic benefits, the selection process has stirred controversy after doing away with bidding.

In Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, voters are revisiting expanded gaming options, including electronic bingo and casino-style games, despite previously opposing similar measures in 2020. The town government emphasized that local opinion has historically skewed against expanded gaming, but new leadership may address the issue based on updated voter sentiment.

Experts suggest that gambling expansions will likely succeed in states where such measures have previously gained voter approval. They also warn that in those cases where debate has led to confusion, voters tend to vote no.