Racino Legislation Appears Despite Voter Opposition

It appears as if Racino backers have introduced legislation to change the 1995 horse racing law. This is likely a precursor to changing the Michigan Constitution to allow casino wagering at tracks. This comes despite the Michigan voters' overwhelming support in 2004 of a constitutional amendment that requires local and statewide approval for any new gaming in the state.

Of course, as an advocate for the charitable gaming industry, we are opposed to any legislation that will hurt charities' ability to raise funds through bingo and other gaming avenues. In this case, we are also opposed to this legislation because this type of fight will be costly to both sides (something the taxpayers in Michigan don't need), and the people have already spoken.

Below is an excerpt from Crain's Detroit Business:

The first direct attempt to permit casino-style gambling at Michigan's seven horse tracks since 2004's Proposal 1 effectively killed such efforts has been launched amid a chorus of skepticism from opponents.

Rep. Andy Meisner, D-Ferndale, introduced a bill (HB 6465) on Sept. 17 that would tweak the state's 1995 horse racing law to pave the way for an amendment to the Michigan Constitution to allow casino wagering at tracks, called “racinos.”

A joint resolution by Meisner and Martin Griffin, D-Jackson, calls for the amendment and spells out how to tax such gaming.

The bill and resolution are in the hands of the House Committee on Regulatory Reform, where no action is yet scheduled.

A request for comment was left Friday afternoon for Meisner, who is term-limited and is a candidate for Oakland County treasurer. His district includes the Hazel Park Harness Raceway track.

Voters approved Proposal 1 in 2004, and it requires a statewide and local referendum on any new gambling in the state, exempting the Detroit casinos and Indian casinos.

It's unclear yet who would foot the bills on what likely would be a costly campaign to persuade voters to approve racino legislation, which the Detroit and Native American casinos would oppose.

“There is plenty of gaming in Michigan right now,” said Marvin Beatty, co-owner of Greektown Casino. “Michiganders have more than enough choices for gaming. I don't think there appears to be any need or interest to expand gaming.”

For the complete story, please see Bill Shea and Daniel Duggan,
'Racino' backers have another try, Crain's Detroit Business, September 28, 2008.