Two chambers gamble on the legislative Slots jackpot
The tension is almost unbearable as the destiny of slots is till hanging in the air. It is the first time the House gave okay on the slots package and a green light on infusion of 9,500 machines at four sites. Only eight days separate the General Assembly to begin its 90-day session. The hot issues of slots and budgets are still awaiting the optimal solution. Will those struggling with underpayment finally get a raise? And will the slots, at last, hit the legislative jackpot?
President Thomas Mike Miller Jr., said he does not think that there is much chance the slot machine deal will happen this year, though he added with great confidence that gambling expansion is inevitable in the state, sooner or later. MR. Busch and Mr. Ehrlich had a brief meeting this week to come to compliance on the proposed bills. The rumors surrounding this meeting divulge that the parties might compromise on a single slot machine location: Laurel Park.
Most of the answers to the biggest questions won't come until next week, when everyone is racing to pass bills by the stroke of midnight.
