CCS/SS/SCS/HS/HCS/HB 793 - This act makes several changes relating to gambling. Tokens used on excursion gambling boats may be either physical or electronic. Applicants for licensure or license renewal for excursion gambling boats are required to provide an affirmative action plan to the Missouri Gaming Commission and to report on the plan's effectiveness at the time of license renewal. The license renewal period is changed from the current two years to no less than two years and no more than three years. A licensee is permitted to acquire gambling games or implements from persons or entities approved by the Gaming Commission, in addition to licensed suppliers.

Current law allows licensees against whom an assessment of tax has been made to petition the Gaming Commission for a reassessment within ten days of the assessment's delivery or postmark. The act extends the reassessment period to twenty days.

The act specifies that wagering by persons under the age of twenty-one constitute a Class B misdemeanor for the first offense and a Class A misdemeanor for second and subsequent offenses.

The act removes from the definitions of "gambling" and "gambling device" any game or amusement machine that gives only an immediate right of replay, noncash prizes, toys, novelties, coupons or tickets that can be redeemed for something of value, under $250, as determined by the cost to the owner or manager of the premises. Prizes for a single play may not exceed the greater of the amount played or $5 dollars. For purposes of the definition of "gambling device", machines that give only replays or non-cash prizes are excluded. Amusement devices available to persons under 21 years old may not simulate slot machines, gambling games of skill or video representations.

Raffles and sweepstakes by religious and charitable organizations with annual gross receipts in excess of $50,000 dollars require a license from the Gaming Commission. The act sets forth license application requirements, and excludes certain persons and organizations from the management, conduct, or operation of any raffle or sweepstakes. The Gaming Commission is authorized to make rules regulating this activity. Violation of any of the raffle and sweepstakes provisions is a Class A misdemeanor.

This act is similar to SB 235, SB 269, and SB 525.
ELIZABETH BAX