A Txdigest poll: Slot machines at racetracks?

[Bob Of Burleson]

Slot machine-like devices at Texas racetracks?

By Anna M. Tinsley
atinsley@star-telegram.com

For some, it’s about the survival of horse racetracks locally and throughout the state.

For others, it’s about stopping the spread of casino-style gambling across Texas.

Either way, the next step in this heated showdown comes Thursday as people on both sides prepare to weigh in on a controversial proposal to allow “historical racing” — the replaying of already-run races in an animated fashion on slot machine-like devices.

Supporters say this form of instant racing is needed to help struggling Texas racetracks compete with out-of-state tracks that boast casinos, bigger crowds and bigger purses. Detractors say the machines look and act much like slot machines, essentially bringing a form of casino-style gambling to Texas.

“This would expand gambling in Texas without question,” said Rodger Weems, chair of the Arlington-based Stop Predatory Gambling Texas. “They can call them instant racing all they want, but they are slot machines.”

Those who support the effort disagree, saying it is just another form of already legal parimutuel wagering.

“This is really, really needed. Our industry in Texas is at a severe competitive disadvantage and this will put us on a level playing field,” said Bruce Bennett, an Austin attorney who represents the Lone Star Park, a horse racing track in Grand Prairie. “It’s an evolution in the way you make a parimutuel wager on a horse race.”

The issue came before the commission last month, proposed by the industry, and members decided to let Texans weigh in on the issue. A 30-day public comment period continues until July 27, and the issue could come before the commission for a vote as soon as Aug. 12.

The commission is holding an informal hearing to gather feedback on this topic at 10:30 a.m. Thursday in the John H. Reagan Building, Room JHR 120, 105 W. 15th St., in Austin.

Read more here: http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/07/16 ... rylink=cpy

[bodine]

I haven't been to a racetrack in over 25 years. Slot machines aren't going to bring me back...