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Kansas Gaming Panel Begins Deliberations

TOPEKA, Kansas – As reported by the Wichita Eagle: "A special gambling advisory panel began deliberations Monday with a warning from its chairman: Stay away from casino promoters.

"Tom Wright, a Topeka lawyer, said he hopes to avoid any perception that committee members are under the influence of an interest group.

"…Gov. Kathleen Sebelius appointed the panel to advise her on gambling issues. For months, the panel has listened to plans for tourist-destination casinos complete with live entertainment, luxurious hotels and other amenities.

"Sebelius is counting on gambling revenue to fulfill her campaign promises to fund schools, highway projects and other state programs.

"Lawmakers, however, have rejected gambling proposals almost yearly for more than a decade, except for approving compacts with four American Indian tribes for casinos on their reservations.

"Now numerous groups, including two of the tribes, have outlined plans for casinos near the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan.

"…Monday's discussion provided few clues about the panel's ultimate recommendation. Some members leaned toward a limited expansion of gambling…"

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