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Maryland Lawmakers Optimistic About Slots

MARYLAND – As reported by the Washington Post: "The first in a series of meetings to resuscitate a slot machine gambling proposal in Maryland began this week, with the state's top three leaders expressing optimism that they could reach agreement.

"Maryland Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) met for dinner Monday night with Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. (D-Calvert) and House Speaker Michael E. Busch (D-Anne Arundel), starting what the governor said would be intense discussions.

"…Last week, Busch agreed to consider putting the issue on November's ballot so voters could make the call. The softened stance won support yesterday from his leadership team in the House of Delegates, some of whom had reluctantly accepted his anti-slots position.

"…The start of negotiations appears to have revived the chances for slots legislation to pass in Maryland, possibly during a special summer session.

"…Yesterday, several of Busch's committee chairmen said they have remained silent about their support for slots because they didn't want to publicly disagree with the speaker.

"…Miller and Ehrlich, who are slots supporters, said yesterday that they left their meeting with Busch encouraged that they are engaging in productive negotiations.

"…The governor also expressed optimism but said he remained cautious and is 'treading very carefully.'…"

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