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Kentucky Lawmakers Reconsider Gambling Expansion

KENTUCKY – As reported by the Kentucky Courier-Journal: "Gov. Ernie Fletcher hasn't wavered from his neutral campaign stance on expanded gambling, but Lt. Gov. Steve Pence has been meeting with gambling supporters, legislators and racing industry officials on the issue.

"Pence described the meetings as a fact-finding mission to better understand all sides of the gambling debate. He said the administration's priority during the upcoming legislative session is tax reform and passing a budget.

"But lawmakers may once again consider whether to broaden gambling at horse tracks and allow stand-alone casinos in Kentucky.

"Sen. David Boswell, D-Owensboro, has pre-filed bills that would let five racetracks operate casino games and allow four casinos. The gambling would generate an estimated $431 million annually for the state within five years.

"…Sen. Charlie Borders, R-Russell, the outgoing Senate caucus chairman, said there appears to be little support for gambling legislation in his chamber.

"…Senate Minority Leader Ed Worley, D-Richmond, said a gambling measure needs the support of the administration to advance and said Pence's involvement has been crucial.

"…Last year Boswell's two gambling bills, which are nearly identical to the ones pre-filed for this session, were assigned to the State and Local Government Committee but languished there.

"Boswell said he believes the climate is better this year, given Kentucky's tight budget and the proliferation of gambling in neighboring Indiana, Illinois and West Virginia…"

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