The Associated Press reported today that the Kentucky Senate has passed a bill to legalize sports betting in Bluegrass.The Senate passed the bill Thursday by a vote of 25-12, sending it to Gov. Andy Beshear's signature to finally settle the long-controversial issue.
Republican Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer, who pushed the bill during the debate and is the bill's main supporter, said: "We love federal sports. And people. wants to be able to choose to bet on sporting events of their own free will, like nearly all surrounding states.” Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear welcomed the bill into law. It reported: “Kentuckians will soon be able to place bets here for the first time.”
The long and winding road to legalization
Governor Beshear has supported legalizing sports betting in Kentucky during his tenure.Attempts to legalize sports betting in the Kentucky legislature, however, have failed, like Bill 606, proposed last year, and Bill 30, which passed the House at the beginning of its 594-day legislative session earlier this month but resumed consideration. It has been a long and winding road, as it was supported by the House but failed to pass the Senate.
Finally, Bill 551 passed the House of Representatives two weeks ago, requiring a three-fifths or more vote in the Senate's three chambers to become law.The Senate voted 2-3 on Thursday to approve sports betting in the state, ending a long-running debate among lawmakers.
Proponents of the law said it would generate at least $2300 million in annual tax revenue and gambling license fees, while opponents believed sports betting was addictive and harmful to society.Republican Senator Whitney Westerfield is said to have said during the session: "Ask yourself how much money it takes for the people of Kentucky to be able to bet on sports."
Kentucky Racing Commission - Regulator
Proponents, meanwhile, argue that sports betting already exists in most of Kentucky's neighboring states.A racetrack in Kentucky, home of the Kentucky Derby, will be licensed as a sports betting facility with license fees expected to be $50 and annual renewal fees of $5.
Racetracks can partner with up to three sports betting operators, with an initial license fee of $3 and an annual renewal fee of $5.
Sports betting operations in the state will be under the jurisdiction of the Kentucky Racing Commission and will be funded by tax revenues.Part of the tax revenue will go to problem gambling associations and the public pension system.
Thayer, a Republican who has long supported legalizing sports betting, said Congress passed Thursday to honor horse racing betting traditions in Kentucky. "This is a great day for the Federation and its people," he said. "The Day Liberty Triumphed".
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