Grocery store slots bill before Senate

CARSON CITY -- It is one of the first things newcomers to Nevada notice -- slot machines in grocery stores.

Legislation is being considered here that would make slot machines less conspicuous in grocery stores.

The bill would require that the machines be placed in a special alcove when a new store is built or when there is a major remodeling. Senate Bill 421 would only affect stores with more than 10,000 square feet.

"I don't know what it is about the psychology of gamblers, but many of them want to smoke while they are playing," said Mary Lau, executive director of the Retail Association of Nevada. "The bill requires a separate ventilation system for the gaming area or at least a ventilation system that can handle the smoke. Many of customers have been complaining about the smoke."

In past legislative sessions, industry representatives have fought similar bills. But no opposition was expressed when it was presented Thursday to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

"I think it is really great that industry has bought into this concept and is addressing it themselves," said Sen. Mark James, R-Las Vegas. "I do not think it is good to walk into a grocery store and have a whole row of slot machines there. ... What really annoys me is these convenience stores attached to McDonald's. They are full of slot machines. Children going to McDonald's shouldn't have to be exposed to that. I'm really disappointed that McDonald's allows this to happen."

Despite James' angst, the bill would not affect restaurants or convenience stores.

"I think this is a great bill," Sen. Maurice Washington, R-Reno, said. "Gambling and smoking are habits that I don't think children should be exposed to when they visit the supermarket with their parents.

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