STATEHOUSE —State Representative Rhonda Rhoads (R-Corydon) testified in the House Committee on Public Policy on Wednesday regarding Senate Bill (SB) 528 and gaming revenue in Harrison Co. Rep. Rhoads spoke in favor of an amendment restoring revenue sharing. The amendment will return the “hold harmless” language to the law as was agreed upon in 2002. “The money that Harrison County receives has become very important to the people in my district,” said Rep. Rhoads. “The revenue has improved community services, education, infrastructure and economic development in Harrison County.” Rep. Rhoads provided numerous examples of how casino revenue has provided services such as ambulance service, county wide transportation service, health services and park projects in addition to community programs like the Boys and Girls Club and 4-H. “In regards to education, revenue has funded alternative schools for troubled children, technology purchases for schools and other special projects that could not be done through the school corporation’s general funds,” said Rep. Rhoads. Economic development projects such as the Lanesville Interchange Industrial Complex, which recently attracted its first company, have been possible because of casino revenue. “All of these services would be in jeopardy of continuing if changes to the 2002 agreement were made,” said Rep. Rhoads. “The casino is the main source of revenue for economic development in Harrison County. Without the continued cash flow from our riverboat, many people and programs would greatly suffer.” The amendment passed with a unanimous vote. The amended version of SB 528 passed the committee with a 10-3 vote. To stay up-to-date on bills as they move through the legislative process, visit www.in.gov/legislative. -30- |
