Gov. Beshear Introduces Gaming Amendment Proposal

Gov. Steve Beshear and Sen. Damon Thayer have announced their plan to introduce expanded gaming in Kentucky.The bill would allow voters to amend the state's constitution this November to allow gaming in up to seven locations in Kentucky. It further would authorize five casino's at racetracks and two at stand-alone locations at least 60 miles from the nearest racetrack."We've been debating this issue in Frankfort for more than 15 years. The citizens of our state are clamoring the have their voices heard," said Beshear in a release sent by his office.The bill has been anticipated since Besehar said he favored a constitutional amendment in December. Since then, a public opinion foll and an economic impact report was produced that showed support for expanded gaming.Supporters say expanded gaming would bring millions of dollars in recurring revenue into the state budget. Opponents like the Family Foundation say if the gambling amendment could pass, it already would have.The amendment needs 23 Senate votes to pass. If it can’t pass the Senate, the legislation will be effectively killed for another year.Click here to see a copy of the amendment.