I write this petition as the Founder and CEO of The Future of Eastern Kentucky, an economic development advocacy group. This cause holds incredible personal significance as it was a dream of my late friend, James Hibbitts, for Raven Rock Resorts to be located in Jenkins, Kentucky. Adult Kentuckians deserve the freedom of choice to participate, or not, in responsible gambling and our state can greatly benefit from this change.

Reforming Kentucky's gambling laws will undoubtedly stimulate our economy through increases in tourism and tax revenue. For example, in New Jersey, which recently updated its gambling laws, their total gaming revenue in 2020 was $2.88 billion, a major source of funding for numerous state projects (source: New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement). Kentucky could benefit similarly, while providing its residents the freedom to make their own choices.

Below is a rough draft of what I would like to have reformed and where the tax revenue will go. 

 

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY

GENERAL ASSEMBLY

BILL NO. [Insert Number]

 

AN ACT relating to the repeal of anti-gambling statutes in Kentucky.

 

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky:

 

 

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SECTION 1: REPEAL OF ANTI-GAMBLING STATUTES

 

The following sections of the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) are hereby repealed:

 

1. KRS 528.010 – Definitions for KRS 528.010 to 528.120.

 

 

2. KRS 528.020 – Promoting gambling in the first degree.

 

 

3. KRS 528.030 – Promoting gambling in the second degree.

 

 

4. KRS 528.040 – Conspiracy to promote gambling.

 

 

5. KRS 528.050 – Possession of gambling records in the first degree.

 

 

6. KRS 528.060 – Possession of gambling records in the second degree.

 

 

7. KRS 528.070 – Possession of a gambling device.

 

 

8. KRS 528.080 – Defense to gambling prosecution.

 

 

9. KRS 528.090 – Lottery offenses.

 

 

10. KRS 528.100 – Seizure and forfeiture of gambling devices and records.

 

 

11. KRS 528.110 – Exemption of certain devices and conduct.

 

 

12. KRS 528.120 – Non-application to state lottery.

 

 

 

 

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SECTION 2: IMPLEMENTATION AND REGULATION

 

(1) The Commonwealth shall establish a commission, herein referred to as the Kentucky Gaming Commission, to regulate gambling activities within the state.

(2) The commission shall develop and enforce rules governing casinos, sports betting, online gambling, and other gaming activities.

(3) The commission shall ensure that gambling activities are conducted responsibly, transparently, and in compliance with state and federal law.

 

 

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SECTION 3: ALLOCATION OF REVENUE

 

(1) Revenue generated from legalized gambling shall be allocated as follows:

(a) 30% to the General Fund.

(b) 20% to education programs, including scholarships and public school funding.

(c) 20% to infrastructure development and maintenance.

(d) 10% to addiction prevention and treatment programs.

(e) 10% to Kentucky Public Pensions Authority

(f) 10% to KENTUCKY FIRE COMMISSION

 

 

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SECTION 4: EFFECTIVE DATE

 

This Act shall take effect upon its passage and approval by the Governor or upon its otherwise becoming law.

 

 

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Signed:

[Name of Sponsor(s)]

[Date]

Kentuckians must push for this change. Not only to fulfill James's dream of the Raven Rock Resorts, but also to stand up for personal freedoms and design an even better future for Eastern Kentucky. The positive economic impact is clear; we could not ignore this any longer. Stand with me, sign this petition, and let's strive for a future where responsible adults can choose, and our beloved Kentucky thrives.

 

 

 

Virginia’s recent experience with casino gambling offers a good point of comparison for Kentucky. Here’s a breakdown of Virginia’s situation and how it could help estimate potential tax revenue for Kentucky:

Virginia’s Casino Gambling Overview

1. Legislation and Tax Structure:

Virginia legalized casino gambling in 2020, allowing for up to five casinos in select cities.

The state taxes casino revenues on a sliding scale, ranging from 18% to 30% depending on the casino’s adjusted gross revenue.

2. Revenue Projections:

Virginia’s Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission estimated the five casinos could generate $260 million to $300 million annually in tax revenue once fully operational.

3. Early Results:

As of 2023, Virginia’s first casinos, including temporary facilities, have already begun generating significant revenue, with monthly tax collections reaching $10–15 million.

Applying Virginia’s Experience to Kentucky

1. Population and Market Size:

Kentucky’s population (4.5 million) is slightly smaller than Virginia’s (8.7 million), but it has a strong tourism draw with attractions like horse racing and bourbon distilleries.

Kentucky’s market might be slightly smaller, but its established gaming culture (via horse racing and historical horse racing machines) could drive strong initial interest.

2. Neighboring Competition:

Kentucky would face similar competitive pressures as Virginia, with established casinos in neighboring states (Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia).

However, Kentucky’s unique attractions and potential for integrated resorts could offset some of this competition.

3. Estimated Revenue for Kentucky:

If Kentucky adopts a similar tax structure to Virginia (18–30%) and a comparable market size, its casinos could generate $200 million to $350 million annually in tax revenue.