Could electronic pulltabs really cover state's debt from Vikings stadium?

Minnesota Public Radio reports the revenue projections are based on assumptions because no other state has tried exactly what Minnesota is proposing.

Author:: BMTN Staff
Updated:: Mar 8, 2018
Original:: Nov 4, 2011

Could electronic pulltabs really cover the state's share of a new Vikings stadium?

Revenue officials say the machines could bring in more than $40 million in annual revenue, but, as Minnesota Public Radio points out, those figures are based largely on assumptions. No other state has tried it.

Meanwhile, the Pioneer Press reports Ramsey County is still lobbying hard to get the stadium built on the former Army ammunition site in Arden Hills. The proposal relied heavily on a local sales tax, but that option no longer seems likely.

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The Pioneer Press reports lawmakers are leaning toward using electronic pulltabs to pay for the state's share. Republican Sen. Julie Rosen says a group of legislators trying to put together a package feels that the other leading option -- slot machines at racetracks -- wouldn't get enough support.

The Star Tribune reports on new revenue projections that show electronic pulltabs in bars and restaurants would pull in about $72 million annually. A legislative stadium group has tentatively endorsed the plan.

A new era in electronic gaming in the state could begin as soon as next week. The hand-held electronic pulltab devices that Minnesota is counting on to help finance its share of the new Vikings stadium may turn up in bars and restaurants Tuesday, provided the state's gambling control board approves them.

The backers are a bit of a mystery, but a new proposal puts a new Vikings stadium north of the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. The Star Tribune reports city leaders have seen the blueprints -- but officials aren't exactly sure who's behind the project. The Vikings are dismissing the plan, preferring to focus on their Arden Hills site.

Sen. Julianne Ortman, R-Chanhassen, who chairs the Senate Taxes Committee, says she will hold two public hearings on the Vikings stadium issue. Both will be after Thanksgiving, scheduled for Nov. 29 and Dec. 6.

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