CRIPPLE CREEK — Colorado Casinos coming off their worst economic year in the state’s 17-year gambling history are hoping a voter-approved amendment will put them out of their slump by expanding the hours and games they offer.

With the passage of Amendment 50, Black Hawk, Cripple Creek and Central City will be able to hold their own elections on whether casinos can raise betting limits from $5 to $100, operate 24 hours a day, and add other games. Currently, casinos must be closed between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m.

Cripple Creek Mayor Dan Baader says the proposal’s approval should raise property values, create jobs for the town and bring new investments.

Seventy-eight percent of the new tax revenue from the casino towns will go to the state’s community colleges.