One-arm bandits have been replaced by computer chips.

Whatever the technology, slots machines still generate a lot of money – for the owner of the slots facility and the government.

If you thought this issue was decided by the referendum four years ago, it may return to the ballot this November – or it may not.

Representatives of Caesars, the sole applicant for the Baltimore City site, testified before the City’s House delegation Friday morning.

I asked if this group was also interested in the license for a proposed facility at National Harbor in Prince Georges County.  My concern: Caesars could abandon the City or downgrade its business there.

When a reporter asked me afterwards if I was satisfied with the response, I said, “Trust but verify.”

In the afternoon, a bill to authorize the Prince Georges site was heard by the Ways and Means Committee.

I rephrased my question from the morning and received a better answer.

What remains to be decided: What effect would authorizing a new slots parlor have on business at the existing sites?

If we increase each licensee’s share of the money bet and reduce the state’s portion but authorize table games, would there be more or less money for K-12 education and economic and community development in the neighborhoods adjacent to the slots parlors and Pimlico Race Track?

We may not have an answer until the closing hours of the 90-day session.