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Maryland Senate Readies for Vote

MARYLAND – As reported by the Baltimore Sun: "Slot machine supporters in the Maryland Senate beat back a series of efforts to hamper legislation to expand gambling in the state, setting the stage for a final vote on Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.'s heavily amended measure this morning.

"During yesterday's almost four hours of debate, the Senate removed Dorchester County from the list of counties eligible for slot machine facilities -- bowing to the wishes of the Republican senator who represents that portion of the Eastern Shore.

"The Senate also voted to expand the distance required between slot machines locations from two miles to four miles, and it added an amendment to guarantee that one of the three racetracks to receive slots would be the one to be built in Allegany County.

"…Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller confidently predicted the Senate will pass the measure today and send it to the House of Delegates, where it faces an uncertain fate.

"…The Senate bill would allow 15,500 slot machines at six locations -- three racetracks and three nontrack facilities. Nontrack sites would be allowed in Baltimore City and Cecil and Prince George's counties, to be picked through competitive bids…"

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