SIOUX FALLS, SD – Should games like roulette, keno and craps be allowed in South Dakota casinos? That’s the question facing South Dakota voters when they head to the polls on Election Day.
Constitutional Amendment Q would allow more games not only in Deadwood but also in tribal casinos across the state. Deadwood officials say the new infusion of casino games is needed for the city, and the state, to keep up with other casinos across the country.

"We want to make sure that the gaming component is competitive," Mike Rodman, executive director of the Deadwood Gaming Association, said.

Voters will have the chance to give Deadwood that possible lift as they vote on Amendment Q.

"Deadwood needs to be able to compete with other jurisdictions around the country and particularly states around South Dakota that have these games," Rodman said.

The Grand Falls Casino in Iowa has craps and roulette, and the same games are allowed in Wyoming, North Dakota and Colorado.

Opponents say there is enough gambling in South Dakota and argue that an expansion of gaming will only continue to cause problems in the state.

The Family Heritage Alliance cites national statistics that estimate 18,000 South Dakotans are gambling addicts.

South Dakota Secretary of State 2014 Ballot Questions Pamphlet

"Whereas in most cases, the free market should be the primary regulator of business,” Family Heritage Alliance executive director Dale Bartscher wrote in opposition to the amendment as part of a voter information pamphlet. “An industry that generates so much addiction, societal ills, crime, and even suicide…should be subject to legal restraints."

Supporters argue the new casino games will create more jobs and revenue for South Dakota.

"Deadwood gave me the opportunity to earn a living and raise my family here in South Dakota and we just want to make sure Deadwood is able to do that for the next generation," Rodman said.

If voters pass the amendment then the legislature would have to vote on giving the final approval to the new games in Deadwood and in tribal casinos.

Replies:

No replies were posted for this topic.