Lawmakers Scramble To Pass Racetrack Gambling Bill In Kentucky

Lawmakers in the state of Kentucky have been working on varying gambling expansion bills since last year, and now time is running short to have one of these amendments passed. Although there is little optimism, some lawmakers are still attempting to have their proposals reach the floor of the House and senate.

Representative Harry Moberly is pushing legislation that would allow electronic gambling machines of skill at state horse racing tracks. He has received some support for the bill, but not enough to make it a considerable option this session.

Senator Damon Thayer is looking to go the constitutional amendment route. His bill would also allow slot gambling at horse racing tracks, but Thayer has had a hard time getting his proposal out of committee.

Governor Steve Beshear is for expanded gambling in the state, but lawmakers may be running out of time. They have less than three weeks left to pass legislation, and that may not be enough time to have a full discussion and complete all of the adjustments that will need to be made.

Last year, Beshear attempted to seize the domain names of 141 online gambling sites. His efforts fell short, with an appeals court blocking the seizures. The case is headed to the Kentucky Supreme Court.

Kentucky racetracks have had decreasing revenue for the past several years, and they desperately need something to save them from financial ruin. Beshear and several other lawmakers believe slot gambling may be the only thing that can keep the tracks from having to close their doors.

March 6, 2010
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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