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Ohio Governor: Casino Could be Bigger Issue New Year

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ohio – As reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer: "Casino gambling didn't get a hearing in this year's legislative session, but it could become a bigger issue next year, Gov. Ernie Fletcher said.

"The need for new sources of revenue is likely to drive the debate over gambling in the 2006 session that begins in January, Fletcher told the Enquirer's Editorial Board on Tuesday.

"…Before passing Fletcher's budget and tax-modernization plan, lawmakers loaded up the budget with nearly $2 billion in debt for projects across the state. Kentucky is also facing a $500 million shortfall in the Medicaid health care plan for the poor and disabled. And lawmakers already have said next year's budget, which must be drafted by January, is already looking tight.

"…Bills allowing casinos at various locations around the state, including at the state's horse tracks, a concept known as a racino that combines a casino and a racetrack, were filed in this session but were never called for even a committee vote.

"Since he ran for governor in 2003 Fletcher has maintained a steady position on gambling - he won't be an overt cheerleader but he won't get in the way of legislative efforts in the legislature to legalize casino gambling.

"…Fletcher and lawmakers are being lobbied intensely by the horse industry, which wants racinos to compete with gambling in other states, to offer larger purses and to provide incentives to breeders so they don't take their stallions to other states that offer financial incentives…"

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