Steve Beshear Puts "Slots" On Special Session Agenda. Read More.

Beshear puts slots on agenda of special session

Gov. Steve Beshear has added a proposal to allow casino-style gambling at racetracks to the agenda of a special legislative session that begins June 15.

The legislation, which would approve video lottery terminals or slots at approved racetracks, would increase purses and breeder’s incentives for the horse industry, he said.

“Kentucky’s horse industry — a living, breathing part of our cultural heritage and one of our strongest, most precious commodities abroad — is in a state of crisis,” he said in a news conference. “Some even say it’s dying.”

Beshear said his proposal would level the playing field for Kentucky’s horse industry, noting that Kentucky is losing race dates at Churchill Downs and other tracks are facing closure.

The governor said his administration is continuing to work on legislation, which he hopes will be finalized in a few days. He said it would contain details of how slots, which would be run by the Kentucky Lottery Corp., would be taxed and generate revenue for both the state and industry.

Editor's comment: I expect a lawsuit if the slots passes the legislature.

Update, 6/10: I spoke too soon about the lawsuit. Watch video below: