Storm brews over riverboat casino tax

INDIANAPOLIS - A tug of war is forming in the General Assembly over an estimated $2.1 million in annual state tax revenue affecting riverboat casinos.

One side argues that every little bit of money helps alleviate the state budget crisis. The other side says a 6-month-old tax that generates few tax dollars might be driving away business.

Sen. Patricia Miller, R-Indianapolis, has filed a bill to end the tax on free hotel rooms that casinos provide to their best customers and other hotels use largely as marketing tools.

Fletcher urges tax code overhaul

FRANKFORT, Ky. - Gov. Ernie Fletcher on Tuesday said he hoped the 2004 General Assembly would at least lay the groundwork for an overhaul of Kentucky's tax code.

Speaking exactly one week before the legislature convenes, Fletcher said there was no need for further study of the tax system, which has been scrutinized by consultants and task forces for years. The legislature has riddled the tax code with exemptions, and critics say it is incapable of expanding with the economy.