Gaming News

Maine Signs Slot Bill

AUGUSTA, Maine – As reported by the Bangor Daily News: "The Maine House and Senate on Wednesday both signed off on a bill paving the way for up to 1,500 slot machines at Bangor Raceway.

"…Both houses must still take final votes on the legislation before it is sent to the governor's office for enactment. The votes are expected today.

"The bill, proposed by Gov. John Baldacci, would replace much of the citizen-initiated legislation passed by voters in November that first authorized slots at the state's harness racing tracks.

"While the bill itself had little trouble in the Senate, which voted 29-6 in favor, a late amendment stalled the legislation there well into the evening as senators debated whether to attach a provision some say could reduce state oversight of the slot operation.

"…The Senate approved the amendment, which the House later endorsed without debate.

"Penn National Gaming, the company poised to run the Bangor slots parlor, had requested the change, which also received an endorsement - albeit a lukewarm one - from the governor's office…"

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