Gaming briefs for February 22, 2005

Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2005 | 10:55 a.m.

House approves exempting casinos from smoking bans

HELENA -- The Montana House on Monday reiterated its desire to exempt casinos from any local smoking bans.

By the same 58-42 margin used to pass a similar measure two years ago, representatives endorsed a bill exempting any business with a gambling license from being subject to local ordinances more strict than the state laws governing indoor air.

The vote was a victory for the casino industry, which has pushed for the exclusion since Helena imposed a sweeping smoking ban on all public places in 2002. Various legal challenges have left that ban in limbo, but casino owners have contended that outlawing smokers would cripple their business.

The 2003 Legislature passed an exemption for casinos, but the Montana Supreme Court overturned it in December because it failed to specifically forbid such bans when it comes to casinos.

Familiar arguments over the bill Monday pitted private property rights against the dangers from secondhand smoke.

Lottery Commission formed

OKLAHOMA CITY -- A former mayor, a teacher of the year and a past American Bar Association president were among those appointed Monday as the first members of the Oklahoma Education Lottery Commission.

"This is a great day for education," said Gov. Brad Henry in announcing the appointments. Proceeds from the lottery will go to schools, colleges and CareerTech facilities.

Henry's appointments include former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick. The manager of Norick Investment Co. was Oklahoma City mayor from 1987 to 1998.

Commissioners, who will serve staggered, seven-year terms, plan to hold their first meeting on Wednesday at the Capitol, a spokesman for Henry said.

"I appreciate their willingness to serve Oklahoma in pursuit of better-funded public schools, universities and career technology centers," Henry said. "With their help and leadership, Oklahoma will soon be able to assist public education through the Oklahoma Education Lottery."

Web site is available for problem gamblers

BISMARCK, N.D. -- A Web site is available for problem gamblers and their friends and families, the state Human Services Department says.

The site at www.gamblingnd.com provides information and encourages visitors to call a 211 help line to talk to a crisis management specialist, the agency said in a statement.

The site, developed by Bismarck-based iNet Technologies, also has links to resources in North Dakota and around the country, the department said.