Gambling News by Gambling Headquarters

The Indiana Licensed Beverage Association has proposed a bill that would allow Cherry Master video gambling machines in bars. For-profit businesses could have up to five machines, while nonprofit fraternal groups could have up to 10. All machines would be taxed by the Indiana Gaming Commission. The bill comes months after authorities confiscated video gambling machines from bars across the region. Danyelle Cross, part-owner of Timber's Lounge, has no problem with the idea of the machines coming back. "I absolutely think it should be legalized," Cross said. She said customers have approached her and suggested Timber's carry machines. Although she doesn't think the machines would increase business significantly, pleasing the customer is important to her. "They're used to having it, and you need to give the customers what they want," she said. Dee Jernigan, a bartender at Stirling's, said the machines can only be a good thing. "The more they drink, the more they play, and the more money you make," Jernigan said. Jernigan used to work at bars in Oklahoma, where the machines were legal. If the machines were legal here, money would benefit the state, she said. "I look at it this way: I think Indiana needs the money a lot more than what we do out in Oklahoma, so that's what they need to do - they need to bring the machines back," she said. The money isn't the only issue. Jernigan also wants customers to have a good time at the bar. "People get bored just sitting around drinking, you know, playing the jukebox. They've got to have something else to do," she said.