Ohio Lottery Commission Deputy Director of Communications Jeannie Roberts has gone on the record as saying that her organization is trying to find clarification from the courts as to whether it has jurisdiction to operate slot machines in state racetracks
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An article by The Cleveland Plain Dealer explains that the United States Federal Court is currently serving as a roadblock to the implementation of video lottery terminals at the Thistledown Race Track for thoroughbreds and Northfield Park for standardbreds.
The report states that Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has voiced his approval for the machines, but the court is deciding whether the Ohio Lottery has the jurisdiction to run the machines.
Roberts was quoted as saying, "We're still seeking legal clarification and trying to move ahead." She was also cited as explaining that it is difficult for Ohio Lottery to set guidelines without knowing legal rules regarding fees and where the machines can be located.
"Because it has to go through the lottery system we can't really make plans," Northfield Park Vice President of Marketing and Hospitality Bill Seese was quoted as saying.
Also explained in the story is that the implementation of VLTs at the racetracks would be a boon to the areas and local economies which they are tied to.
(With files from The Cleveland Plain Dealer)