 Newsletter Signup
Stay informed with the
NEW Casino City Times newsletter! Related Links
|
Gaming News
Video Gambling Supporters Plan Legislative Push23 December 2003INDIANAPOLIS -- As reported by the Indy Channel: ``The lure of new tax money during tight state budget times could be a key part of the strategy for those pushing to legalize video gambling machines at Indiana's horse racing venues. ``A proposed bill would legalize video pull-tab machines at horse race tracks and off-track betting sites, side-by-side with pari-mutuel wagering, RTV6's Derrik Thomas reported. At least five states have a similar setup. ``Supporters believe it could produce more tax revenue for the cash-strapped state government, provide entertainment for the gambler, and financial support for the horse racing industry. ```There's been no state where its been introduced and has had a negative impact,' Hoosier Park General Manager Rick Moore said. 'It's been all positive. It's a win or the state, horsemen, and the racetracks themselves.' ``…The bill will likely make it through the House of Representatives, but the Senate is a big question mark, Thomas reported. Backers believe the video gambling machines would generate $140 million in revenue for the state, to be split down the middle with local government. ``…The proposed bill would allow racetracks to have as many as 750 video pull-tab machines, and 1,500 machines at OTBs, but getting the legislation passed will be an uphill climb, Thomas reported…" |