JEFFERSON CITY — Missouri lawmakers have voted to loosen many of the state's bingo restrictions.
The legislation given final approval Friday would allow more frequent bingo games and replace a $3,600-per-day cap on prizes for all bingo rounds with a ceiling set by the Gaming Commission.
The bill also lowers taxes. The measure eliminates a 0.2-cent tax levied on each game card. It also repeals a 2 percent gross receipts tax on pull-tab cards that are similar to lottery tickets in that they allow the player to scratch off windows.
More than 300 charitable and fraternal organizations are allowed to run bingo games that are regulated by the state.
Supporters said the changes are designed to help veterans and fraternal groups, but its critics have argued the bill expands legalized gambling.