By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – All Missourians will decide whether a casino should be allowed on the White River in Rockaway Beach in southwest Missouri.
The Secretary of State's office has certified the issue for the ballot after supporters gathered signatures from registered voters. The statewide vote will be in either August or November.
The state constitution, in Article III, Section 39e, says "the general assembly is authorized to permit [casinos] upon the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers only." The issue before voters would allow one more casino in a specific location.
Rockaway Beach voters have given their approval for the casino. The aim is to bring more tourists and jobs to town. But business leaders from nearby Branson do not want the casino in Rockaway Beach.