Senator Damon Thayer, a major player in the debate over slots at tracks in Kentucky, is proposing a constitutional amendment to legalize slots that could mean $100 million to the state’s horse industry
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Thayer has pre-filed the measure, which would provide Kentucky racing with one quarter of slot machine net revenue or $100 million, whichever is greater. If the measure were passed, it would require voters’ approval next November, and would also provide a one-fourth share to the licensees who would operate the facilities.
Thayer thinks the measure has a chance, and that democrats would not chance opposing a public vote, but senate minority leader Ed Worley dismissed that notion, saying he saw no sentiment in the democratic caucus for support of the idea.
The bill would need 23 votes of 38 in the senate and 60 of 100 in the house to gain approval. Even if it passes, it would not assure tracks of slots. The measure calls for competition among bidders, as in New York with the Aqueduct project.
(Harness Tracks of America)