BANGOR (AP) – A special panel created by Gov. John Baldacci recommends changing the state’s formula for taxing slot machines in Maine.

Under the plan, Hollywood Slots would pay about the same amount. Last year, the slots operator paid about $20.6 million to the state.

But the formula would be clarified so the public and state officials better understand what Hollywood Slots is actually earning and what is being taxed.

The last time the state tried to tinker with the slot machine tax formula, the owners of Hollywood Slots halted construction of its $131 million gaming and hotel complex in protest. That’s not expected to happen this time.

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Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangornews.com

AP-ES-02-05-08 0721EST