Minn. bill would allow video slot machines in bars

St. Paul, Minn. (AP) — State Sen. Chuck Wiger says video slot machines in bars and the airport could raise more than $1 billion for the state each year.

The DFL lawmaker from North St. Paul says he'll propose a bill Monday that would allow the games in the state's 3,200 bars and in the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

He says the revenue would go toward veteran assistance and the state's school system.

His measure would provide college scholarships for students with a B average or better.

Wiger says he's proposing the voluntary option to help Minnesota through difficult economic times.

Senate co-authors of the legislation include Democratic Sens. Linda Scheid, James Metzen, Dan Sparks and Dan Skogen.

The chief author of the House companion is Democrat Robin Brown.

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Information from: KSTP-TV, http://www.kstp.com