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Kentucky Looks at Expanding Gambling

FRANKFORT, Kentucky – As reported by the Lexington Herald-Leader: "For the first time since taking office, Gov. Ernie Fletcher's administration is conducting an in-depth study of expanded gambling in Kentucky, which some proponents are taking as a sign their day may finally be coming.

"Lt. Gov. Steve Pence in recent weeks has personally interviewed -- in his Capitol office and during trips around the state -- dozens of horse racing and gambling officials, lawmakers and gambling industry experts. Pence describes his work as strictly a fact-finding mission to determine "the status of expanded gaming and what the various interests are, what the various options are." He denies cooking up a plan.

"Fletcher straddled the gambling issue in his 2003 campaign, saying he'd neither push for it nor fight 'the people's will' if they want to legalize slot machines or even full casinos. Fletcher, his top aides and Pence all insist that hasn't changed.

"But some of those consulted by Pence say they left with the impression that the administration may come around to support some form of expanded gambling, largely because the state treasury could get a share of the take.

"… [John Bays, a Joliet, Ill., developer who wants to build a $200 million casino and entertainment complex in Owensboro,] met with Pence earlier this month, accompanied by state Sen. David Boswell, an Owensboro Democrat.

"Boswell has pre-filed bills for next month's General Assembly session that would put the gambling issue on a future election ballot for voters to decide.

"…In their meeting, Bays said Pence asked about his vision for the Owensboro casino. Bays claims it would bring $30 million a month in revenue and economic activity to the area. He said Pence also asked about permitting slot machines at horse tracks across the state as a first step…"

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