Minnesota Lottery would be allowed to operate slot machines at Columbus and Shakopee if the bill gets approved
Over the decades there have been several attempts to legalize bills related to the expansion of horse racing in several states. Some of them have proposed to undertake off track betting along with horse racing while others have vouched for adding slot machines to race track. The state of Minnesota has been making attempts to legalize a bill that would enable the race tracks in the state to add slot machines.
Recently, two race tracks have been named that would get the privilege of adding slot machines in case the bill is approved. The race tracks that have been given the credit are present in Columbus and Shakopee. According to the announcement, these tracks have been selected and will be operated by the Minnesota Lottery.
The horse racing industry of the nation has been suffering considerable distress since the time recession hit. The affect of the unfavourable consequences have been multiplies by the fact that already the horse racing industry was having a hard time generating new audience.
The sport is popular among the older generation and has lost its appeal for the youngsters. The horse racing industry needs to attract the younger crowd as its small group of fans is dwindling day by day. The proposal to add slot machines is an endeavour in this direction.
The two people who are actively supporting the bill in the state of Minnesota are David Senjem, a senator from Rochester as well as Bob Gunther, a republican belonging to Fairmont. Despite the fact that there are many activists that support the implementation o the bill and are eagerly hoping for it to be legalized, there are other views on the subject as well.
As with any proposal there are people who are forcefully in opposition of the bill. However, some take a more neutral stance on the issue. Governor Mark Dayton, who is a Democrat, does not oppose the bill straight on. He is of the opinion that the bill can be beneficial to Minnesota given certain conditions are met. These concerns include the implementation cost of slot machines to the race tracks.
What will be the fate of the bill is yet undecided, however, efforts to get it implemented are still underway.
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