1.25.2008

Beshear says gambling proposal coming soon

By JOE BIESK
Associated Press Writer

FRANKFORT, Ky. --
Gov. Steve Beshear said his gambling proposal should be ready for state lawmakers' consideration by early next month.

Beshear, speaking at a news conference Tuesday, also stood by his previous estimate that state government could reap up to $500 million per year from casino gambling. Some lawmakers grumbled that an administration-backed proposal had not been offered yet, but Beshear said the plan is being worked out and expected by early next month.

"We're hopefully going to have the legislation prepared in early February, which will give the General Assembly plenty of time to consider it, hold hearings on it, ask any questions that they would like," Beshear said.

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1.19.2008

Lawmakers react to gambling projection

Lawmakers react to gambling projection
By JOE BIESK
Associated Press Writer

FRANKFORT, Ky. --
A projection that casino gambling will bring Kentucky much less tax revenue than the advertised $500 million may be dampening some lawmakers' interest in the plan.

Senate Majority Floor Leader Dan Kelly, during a chamber floor speech Friday, said Kentucky's lawmakers should focus their energy elsewhere. Kelly, R-Springfield, said the lower forecast won't add much money to state coffers.

"We don't need to be distracted by things that really aren't going to produce that much revenue for the state," Kelly said.

Kentucky already allows gambling through a state lottery, bingo halls and wagering at horse tracks. But Gov. Steve Beshear, a Democrat, ran for governor claiming that Kentucky should legalize casino gambling at horse racing tracks and a few freestanding locations throughout the state.

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1.11.2008

Horse tracks make pitch for legalized casino gambling

Horse tracks make pitch for legalized casino gambling
The Associated Press Link to source here

FRANKFORT, Ky. --
Representatives from Kentucky's thoroughbred horse tracks have pitched legalized casino gambling to a state legislative panel.

The Kentucky General Assembly opened its 2008 session on Tuesday. Lawmakers are expected during the coming months to consider a proposed constitutional amendment that would authorize limited casino gambling throughout the state.

Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear says the state can take in about $500 million per year in new revenue if casino gambling is permitted.

Horse track representatives said Wednesday they're not certain exactly where the casinos will be located if voters approve the amendment.

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