The Kentucky Senate has voted 22-15 in favor of legislation aimed at re-defining Parimutuel betting to include historical horse racing. The intense debate on the senate floor came following the Kentucky Supreme Court’s ruling last fall that some machines at horse track facilities were illegal.
Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer spoke in favor of the bill. “Now I don’t understand the class warfare being played here today. It’s upsetting to me personally. Cause I know people of all walks of life that make that decision to make a wager. And make no mistake, it’s the wagering that drives the purses,” said Thayer.
Hopkinsville Senator Whitney Westerfield spoke at length in opposition to the bill. He began his remarks saying the legislation is unconstitutional. He also contended it’s not a proper role for government. “For the government to get in bed with an industry that requires its people to lose for the industry to succeed, I think we’re doing our people a great dis-service. It preys on the poor. It preys on those hoping, hoping, wishing that their next play is the one that makes it big,” said Westerfield.
More than one senator spoke about modifying the legislation where a higher tax on the slot-machine type wagering could produce more revenue for the state. The bill now heads to the House for its consideration.
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