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Tilson noted that the district could benefit if Proposition A passes, but the district will not budget funds that might be raised through Schools First Initiative next year.
She added that the funds will run through the state foundation formula. "I will believe it when we can actually see it in foundation formula - the formula already is not fully funded," Tilson said. "We have reservations and I can tell you for sure that we will not be budgeting funds until there is a surety that we will get that money - I am skeptical."
If the proposition passes, it would increase the casino gambling tax from 20 percent to 21 percent, create a specific fund for proceeds generated as a result of the initiative called the "Schools First Elementary and Secondary Education Improvement Fund" and require annual audits of this new fund.
However, Tilson said the initiative provides more changes for casinos than schools.
A "yes" vote will amend Missouri law to:
* repeal the current individual maximum loss limit for gambling;
* prohibit any future loss limits;
* require identification to enter the gambling area only if necessary to establish that an individual is at least 21 years old; and
* restrict the number of casinos to those already built or being built.
Tilson said schools were promised additional funding generated from casinos in the early 90s but did not receive those funds.
"If you have been in education very long you have been burned," Tilson said. "We were promised things in the early '90s and didn't get them - some people probably don't care and will think if it helps kids they will vote but they have to understand it is a gaming issue."
If the proposition passes, state governmental entities will receive an estimated $105.1 to $130 million annually for elementary and secondary education, and $5 to $7 million annually for higher education, early childhood development, veterans, and other programs. Local governmental entities receiving gambling boat tax and fee revenues will receive an estimated $18.1 to $19 million annually.
Tilson said district that are "hold harmless" won't see any additional funding. A "no" vote will maintain the current individual maximum loss limit of $500 for each gambling excursion. The casino gambling tax will not be increased nor will the "Schools First Elementary and Secondary Education Improvement Fund" be created. Also, the number of new casinos that may be built in Missouri will not be restricted.
