Posting date: May 24, 20,23, 02h40.

Last updated: May 24, 2023 at 02:49h

Gov. Jared Polis (D-CO) vetoed a bill that would have allowed Colorado casino operators to extend lines of credit to customers.

In controversial fashion, the proposal passed the state legislature earlier this month after a second vote was called. This allowed some lawmakers to change their original “nay” votes into “yea”. (Image:

Associated Press

)

In controversial fashion, the proposal passed the state legislature earlier this month after a second vote was called, allowing some lawmakers to change their original “nay” votes to “yay.” Much to the chagrin of policymakers from both parties who opposed the bill, the roll calls occurred late on a Saturday night, something the dissenters believe was intentional.

Had SB23-259 been signed into law by Polis, it would have allowed Colorado casino operators to extend credit markers of $1,000 and up to clients. He also mentioned the legal ramifications of casinos extending credit to customers who are intoxicated. He also mentioned the potential legal ramifications of casinos extending credit to customers who are inebriated.

Thus, just as there would be issues with gaining the consent of a person with a substance use disorder who is under the influence, there are also serious issues regarding the ability of a person with a gambling disorder to freely consent to a loan while on a gambling spree,” he wrote in his veto letter.

Colorado Casino Credit Bill Targeted Out-of-State VIPs

SB23-259 supporters framed the legislation as an avenue for Colorado casino operators to lure VIPs from other states.

The industry’s credit market system is common at commercial and tribal gaming venues across the US and allows bettors to apply for credit in advance of their visits. Some high rollers prefer to use credit cards because it is convenient and less risky than traveling with large sums of money.

Some Colorado casinos are building new properties and enhancing their existing ones in order to attract clients from neighboring states Arizona Kansas Nebraska New Mexico and Wyoming. Polis said SB23-259 was written in a way that would have targeted tourists and not locals. However, as currently written and passed, I worry that the bill would contribute to problematic gaming activities and hurt Coloradans, in particular those of limited means,” he added in the veto letter.

Colorado allows casino gaming in Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek, with Black Hawk ranking as one of the fastest-growing gaming markets in the country.