Supporters of gambling proposal raise $6 million

KUSA –A casino-backed group has raised more than $6 million to promote a ballot proposal aimed at allowing Colorado casino towns to operate more like Las Vegas.

If passed -- Amendment 50 could allow gambling towns like Black Hawk, Cripple Creek and Central City to hold their own elections on raising betting limits from $5 to $100, keeping casinos open around the clock -- and adding games.

Jon Anderson of Denver is the one man who is fighting this Amendment.

Anderson, an attorney, equates his fight with grass roots -- old style politics.

"I just thought it was a very bad idea. Any one of these things, raising the bet limit, going to 24-7, adding craps and roulette would be a big deal. Now that the gaming association is trying to do three at once. I think it's too extreme for Colorado. I think it's a bad idea for Colorado, I think if Colorado citizens have that discussion, they'll agree it's a bad idea," said Anderson.

Coloradans for Community Colleges, a group that stands to gain if the amendment passes and casinos expand the attractions they offer, is supporting the effort.

The amendment promises 78 percent of casino's additional revenue will go to Colorado's Community colleges, that is after the schools receive money awarded to them from the state.

"For staff and faculty and some of it can be used for student aid," said Paul Schauer, a member of the group, "going to art program that are five hour programs that some of the individuals would like to have some aid. The program will support the 13 state Community Colleges."

Schauer said economists predict over five years colleges might get $200-300 million dollars.

According to Anderson, from an economic point of view, the amendment is not good for the state. He believes the disposable income people have will be go to casino operators -- rather than local communities.

Voters in November will have to approve Amendment 50, so voters in gambling towns can decide what if anything to do next.