AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine lawmakers are considering a bill that would expand the number of slot machines non-profit groups like legion halls are allowed to have to three. Gambling Board Director Patrick Fleming told the board that if the proposal becomes a reality, more staff will be needed for oversight.
"The problem is that, for an inspector, these machines could be anywhere from Kittery to Madawaska," Fleming said. "And if they are only allowing them up to three in organizations, you are talking up to 50 new venues that will have slot machines in them."
Fleming says, under existing law, each slot machine needs to be inspected and regularly audited by board staff. He says existing staff is hard pressed to handle the slot machines located at Maine's two licensed casinos without adding to their workload.
The proposal is far from a done deal. A public hearing on the measure has not yet been scheduled.
