Track slots remain in the news in Massachusetts, where a state Senate and House conference committee has been unable to agree after almost two weeks of

deliberations.

The six-member panel hopes to reach accord before the close of the current legislative session at the end of this month. The governor and president of the Senate still oppose slots at tracks, but House Speaker Robert DeLeo adamantly refuses to yield on the issue.

DeLeo told newsmen after a meeting yesterday with Gov. Deval Patrick, “At least we’re talking. When people stop talking and the dialogue stops, then that’s probably the death of legislation.”

He was not sure that a compromise can be reached by the July 31 deadline, saying, “It remains to be seen.” Senate President Therese Murray, who attended the meeting with DeLeo and addressed the press with him, said merely, “We’re working.”

(Harness Tracks of America)