The Louisiana Senate Approves Slots Amendment to Benefit Saints
The Louisiana Senate finally approved an amendment to a bill that would allow the state to cover the estimated $10 million shortage in its annual payment to NFL team the New Orleans Saints. The team would enjoy funds generated by slots taxes, garnered from slot machines operated on the premises of the New Orleans Fair Grounds.
The House already approved a separate bill, proposed by Representative Cedric Richmond, to install slots at the Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans, so as to generate funds for the team. However, the Senate has stalled the bill indefinitely, due to opposition from Governor Kathleen Blanco. Governor Blanco's opposition stems from her objection to expanding gambling ventures in Louisiana.
Now, it is up to the House to decide whether or not to accept the slots amendment passed by the Senate. In case it does, part of the generated revenues would be allocated to comply with Louisiana’s contract with the team.
