On November 17^th, the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission approved the acquisition of Peninsula Gaming, LLC. by Boyd Gaming Corporation of Las Vegas. Peninsula Gaming built and is managing the Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane, Kansas. The Kansas Lottery Commission approved the merger earlier in the week. The Lottery approved transferring Peninsula’s management contract with the state to Boyd Gaming as well.

Jay Shadwick, chair of the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, said the Kansas Lottery conducted both the initial and in-depth investigations of the long term financial implications prior to the decision. Earlier reports from the Wichita Eagle noted that the commission had been working on a background suitability study of the company.

“Boyd is well respected, with a successful track record,” Shadwick said.

Representatives of the Kansas Star Casino praised the executive leadership at Peninsula during the meeting, and said the transition to Boyd Gaming was going well. He described Boyd as a great fit for the casino and mentioned the company’s strong commitment to integrity and appreciation of employees as key benefits. “Boyd will add great value,” he said.

The transaction will close on Nov. 20, 2012, according to the Boyd Gaming website.