Nevada casinos not supporting teacher-tax plan

Friday, Jan. 12, 2001 | 11:21 a.m.

Bible said NRA directors have discussed the tax proposal extensively - but will remain neutral until sometime after the Legislative convenes Feb. 5.

The association has filed a court brief suggesting the state should preserve its ability to consider revenue from all businesses, but Bible said that shouldn't be "misinterpreted as a gaming industry position of support for the teachers tax."

He also said the NRA won't take a position on the teacher tax until it gets more information on the need for the new revenue, which industries would be affected and how the revenue would be distributed.

If new taxes are needed, Bible said the gambling industry "will contribute on the same basis that everyone else does."

"The difference this time is that the gaming industry will vigorously oppose being singled out as the only industry that pays for Nevada's growth," he said in a statement.

Bible commented after Reno lawyer and gambling lobbyist Harvey Whittemore said casino owners support the business profits tax.

The teacher tax plan has drawn opposition from most state lawmakers and business owners. The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce is spearheading an effort to fight the tax, including a court case challenging the constitutionality of the plan.

The Nevada Supreme Court will hear arguments on the case Feb. 7, two days after the Legislature convenes.