Gaming News

Indiana Senate leader will block casino move

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana -- As reported by the Indianapolis Star: "State Senate President David Long on Thursday declared gambling proposals off limits in the upcoming special legislative session, and he quickly was backed up by Gov. Mitch Daniels and House Minority Leader Brian Bosma.

"But at least two Northwest Indiana legislators say they won't let the Republican triumvirate stand in the way of an economic development package centered on moving one of Gary's lakefront casinos to the southern edge of the city, near Interstate 80/94.

"'With respect to Sen. Long and Mr. Bosma, they are one of 150 (legislators) when it comes down to this time of the year," said Rep. Charlie Brown, D-Gary. "That may be their desire. But then I see that both of them are ready, willing and able to bail out the CIB (Capital Improvement Board stadium authority) of Indianapolis. I don't think that will fly."

"Long, a Fort Wayne Republican, declared a state budget the only legislation he will allow the Senate to consider when the General Assembly convenes next month. And the budget bill had better be free of gaming proposals, he said.

"'The Senate will not vote for a budget bill that has gambling in it, Long said. "We should not hold the budget hostage over gambling. Period...'"

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