SB 981 - This act authorizes the Missouri Lottery Commission to create a statewide "Video Gaming Machine Network". Certain types of video gambling machines are authorized in licensed locations. The machines will be electronically linked to a main computer which will audit the functioning of the devices and provide transfers of funds to the machines.

Revenues generated by the "Video Gaming Machine Network" will be placed in the "Higher Education Trust Fund", also created by this act, for the purpose of creating reserves for capital improvements to higher education facilities and providing grants for student education. A portion of this fund shall offset any decline in lottery sales.

A license is required for manufacturers and distributers of such video games as well as for each machine and each premises containing the machines. The Director of the Lottery Commission sets the rules for licensing of machine locations, distributors, manufacturers, and parts suppliers. The Commission will contract with these licensed entities on an annual basis.

Tampering with games or machines is a Class D felony. After the effective date of this act, it shall be illegal to operate any video device that can simulate a game played on a licensed video gaming machine.
OTTO FAJEN
DAVID TALLMAN