Nebraskans for Video Keno is a group pushing for the authorization of video keno in local communities throughout Nebraska.
On the move since March 2006, the group has been gathering signatures and circulating petitions to include video keno on the ballot for Nebraskan voters on November 7, 2006.
Video keno is another way of playing the popular game of keno, similar to live keno albeit self-service.
In 2004, a similar initiative was voted down. The group claims that this initiative is different because as opposed to the 2004 initiative, the new initiative does not change the constitution. It is just an offshoot of the existing legal game of keno.
2004's initiative would have involved changes to the constitution which would have authorized casinos and slot machines in addition to keno.
Though both allow wagering, video keno is different from slot machines. Video keno only allows wagering on keno, a game already allowed in Nebraska. Video keno machines would not have a pull handle, spinning reels, a coin pan, or other features commonly understood to represent a slot machine.
The said initiative would have no effect whatsoever on live keno. Video keno can be played along with current live keno games.
The initiative is sponsored and backed by Local Nebraska keno operators. According to the group, they are a purely grassroots initiative, and no casinos are involved.
According to them, locationwise, the initiative doesn't change the places where keno is played. Video keno will be played only in places approved by the local community. Likewise, the game will still be regulated by the Nebraska Department of Revenue and the local community.
Communities are urged to support the initiative because according to the group, it gives an additional option to raise community betterment revenue. However, it will be the decision of the communities whether to participate in this kind of revenue, retaining their autonomy in the venture.
Examples given of 'community betterment' from live keno games are the funding for Omaha's Zoo and the Qwest Center. Keno has likewise funded parks, libraries, sports facilities, public safety, street and sidewalk improvements, and a wide variety of important public projects in communities across Nebraska. Keno revenue can also be used for tax relief.
The initiative states that the taxes from the machines will be distributed accordingly. 27% stays with the City for community betterment. 9% goes to the State for regulation and gamblers assistance. This is the same tax plan approved by voters in 2004.
Sunday, July 23 , 2006
Louis Blechdom
