By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri House lawmakers on Wednesday gave initial approval to legislation that limits the number of casinos in the state.
There are currently 11 casinos operating in Missouri, with two more planned in the St. Louis area.
The legislation would cap the number of casino licenses at 13. It would also restrict any new casinos to the St. Louis and Kansas City areas.
If passed, the new law would limit just the licenses to operate a casino, which means new casino buildings could actually be built, but only to replace old ones.
Missouri's state Constitution allows casinos only along the Missouri and rejected a plan to allow a casino on the White River, in southwestern Missouri.
The legislation in the House needs another vote in that chamber before moving to the Senate.