Absentee Voting Begins in Missouri as Sports Betting Controversy Heats Up

Absentee Voting Kicks Off in Missouri Amid Sports Betting Debate

As the vibrant city of Kansas City gears up for another exciting election season, absentee voting has officially begun in Missouri. But this time, it’s not just the usual candidates and propositions that are in the spotlight. The increasing buzz around legalizing sports betting has captured the attention of many residents, and you might have noticed a flurry of commercials promoting Amendment Two lately. Advocates argue that the potential revenue from legalized sports betting could do wonders for our schools, especially when it comes to raising teacher salaries. However, there’s another side to the story, and it’s gaining traction.

What’s All This About Sports Betting?

With the ongoing excitement surrounding local teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, sports fans are itching for a way to stay engaged during game days. Jackson Shank, a local sports enthusiast, currently travels to Kansas to watch games. “If we’re going to watch the Chiefs game, we’re going to a bar on the Kansas side,” he shared. “We love to live bet them, because we’re notorious for coming back.”

Shank isn’t the only one. Many Kansas City establishments like Lew’s Grill and Bar are starting to feel the pressure. Co-owner Andy Lewellen noted that he often sees customers taking their business to Kansas, where they can gamble and catch every thrilling moment of the game. “To have another meal, soda, or adult beverage,” Lewellen speculated, “might just keep that person in your bar.” So, a vote “yes” on Amendment Two might translate to increased business for local restaurants.

Reading the Fine Print

Despite the enticing prospects, The Kansas City Chapter of the American Federation for Teachers Union is raising a red flag. They urge Missouri voters to carefully review the language on the ballot before making any decisions. The concern? The promise of funding from sports betting could be misleading. AFT 691 President Jason Roberts voiced his skepticism, pointing out that the amendment’s language suggests uncertain revenue, with estimates ranging from $0 to a whopping $28.9 million annually.

“One thing you can’t do is make promises in salaries,” Roberts noted. “That’s a terrible idea. Let’s say they commit to us they’re going to give us $5 million for teacher raises for next year. What if they suddenly only give us $2 million? Who has to make up the other three?”

The Loopholes in Question

This isn’t just a matter of opinion; data from a State Auditor’s report revealed a series of loopholes that could lead to sports betting operators paying little to no taxes. For instance, the report indicates that operators could deduct a significant portion of promotional credits and free play costs, potentially leaving them with zero tax liabilities. Roberts expressed concern, saying, “They’re going to play so they maximize their profits, they can write off whatever they want.”

Voices of Support

On the other end of the debate, Amendment Two has drawn support from both Republican and Democratic candidates for governor. A recent study even estimates that legalized sports betting could raise as much as $105 million for Missouri public schools over the next five years.

As absentee voting gets underway, it’s clear that Kansas City residents are facing a pivotal decision. Will they choose to legalize sports betting and possibly reshape education funding—or will they heed the teachers’ warnings and the potential pitfalls highlighted in the proposition?

The countdown to the elections is on, and every vote will count as Missouri decides on this pressing issue. Stay informed, because the choices we make today can have lasting impacts on our community and schools.