By AP
Frankfort, KY – Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear is urging lawmakers to legalize slots at Kentucky horse tracks as a way to stave off massive budget cuts and potential layoffs of state workers. In a Tuesday address to a joint session of the House and Senate, Beshear called on lawmakers to approve gambling legislation that he said could generate $780 million for state government over two years. The proposal has proven divisive in the past in Kentucky. Political leaders have historically frowned on casino-style gambling despite a long history of wagering on horse races,
lotteries and charitable games like bingo.
Anti-gambling advocates quickly objected to Beshear's proposal. Say No To Casinos spokesman Martin Cothran says the proposal stands little chance of passing either the House or the Senate. Leaders of both chambers have said previously they believe it lacks the support necessary to pass.