Representatives of Delaware’s three racinos are once again going to state lawmakers for financial relief. The Delaware Video Lottery Advisory Council, a panel including representatives of Delaware Park, Dover Downs and Harrington Raceway, is asking state lawmakers to revamp Delaware’s revenue-sharing models so the casinos can operate profitably.
The group is asking the state to change the slot revenue tax from its current high fixed rate—an effective 60 percent, including all fees—with a tiered revenue tax that would be lower when revenues are lower. On table games, the casino operators simply want the rate reduced from its current effective 40 percent—the highest table tax in the country—to around 15 percent, which would be more competitive with other states.
Other proposals being discussed by the council include paying vendor fees for slot machines from the state share of slot win, before revenues are split up. The state’s horsemen are opposed to this measure because it would provide less money for the racing side of the equation.
The council is expected to make its recommendations in a report to state lawmakers this week.
