Lobbying Groups Ready For Gambling Expansion Battle In Georgia

The new year has come and gone and lawmakers in many states have headed back to work. In Georgia, the legislative session begins this week, and the focus of several lobbying groups will be expanded gambling in the state.

The type of gambling that is being lobbied for will be different depending on who is doing the talking. There are groups that want horse racing in the state, and others who want a casino in Underground Atlanta.

The state budget deficit will be at the center of the gambling expansion discussion. many states have moved towards legalizing casinos and other gambling options to help bridge the budget gaps. Georgia lawmakers may be open to the same type of expansion.

The groups that are seeking horse racing for the state believe that millions of dollars can be raised by having the racing facilities in operation. The horse racing industry has been struggling as a whole in the US, but recent expansion in Indiana proves that the industry can still bring in a lot in revenue.

The Underground Atlanta casino idea is one that has been floated starting last year, but it has many detractors. That may be a more difficult sell for lobbyists than the horse racing venues. either way, all groups will have their presence felt in the coming weeks.

Since many of the lawmakers in Georgia are new to the gambling issue, the lobbyists will spend much of their time trying to enlighten the lawmakers on the benefits of expanded gambling. That education begins this week, and the lobbyist groups are prepared for the battle.

January 11, 2010
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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