Video Lottery Ballot Clarification Ordered

PIERRE, South Dakota – As reported by the Argus Leader: "Circuit Judge Max Gors ordered state officials Monday to add an explanation to November's ballot about the repeal of video lottery, putting the tax loss of $112 million into the context of the state budget.

"Gors, in a 12-page order, said no one disputes that the loss of video lottery would cost the state $112 million. But he told Attorney General Larry Long, who wrote the ballot explanation, to add a phrase that points out the amount is 11 percent of the state's general fund.

"…Long said his office is satisfied with that decision.

"…Long is required to write brief explanations about the purpose and effect of each ballot measure. Supporters of the gambling repeal complained that Long's inclusion of the amount of money that could be lost, $112 million, was the equivalent of sticker shock without some context.

"Ending the video lottery case and a challenge to another ballot explanation that is in the state Supreme Court will clear the way for ballots to be printed…"