Saskatchewan May Cut VLT Counts

SASKATCHEWAN – As reported by the StarPhoenix: “Saskatchewan's high number of video lottery terminals (VLTs) and slot machines will go under the microscope as the government launches a long-awaited study on whether cutting the number of machines would help deal with problem gambling in the province.

“But a proponent of slashing gaming machine numbers believes the province should take more immediate action.

“The board of the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority on Monday approved a plan to contract an independent researcher to consult with national and international gaming experts on the potential impact of reducing the number of machines, as well as other steps such as limiting access to or slowing play on the machines.

“...The approval of the study fulfills a promise made by the former SLGA minister Eric Cline last November after the provincial Liberal party passed a resolution calling for the province to reduce VLT and slot machine numbers by 2,000.

“There will be over 6,700 gaming machines in the province when two new First Nations casinos are opened in Swift Current and the Whitecap Dakota First Nation this year."