SEARCH NEWS:

 

Washington State Bill Would Expand Gambling

WASHINGTON – As reported by the Tacoma News Tribune: "The Legislature this week quietly sent Gov. Gary Locke a bill that would expand gambling outside of Indian casinos and the state lottery for the first time in seven years.

"The bill would allow Internet and telephone betting on horse races and would give a cut of the proceeds to in-state horse breeders and track owners, as well as the state Horse Racing Commission.

"Supporters say the bill would help save the state's struggling horse racing industry without creating new forms of gambling. Critics worry that its effects are unpredictable and could include a vast expansion of gambling in the state.

"Pushed by Auburn's Emerald Downs, the state's only top-tier horse track, the bill also would allow virtually unlimited, nonstop gambling at the track and its 21 off-site betting parlors.

"…'It is a very big deal,' said state Sen. Margarita Prentice (D-Seattle), a former member of the state Gambling Commission and one of the Legislature's leading opponents of expanded gambling…"

< Gaming News