Long-Awaited ‘Racino’ Bill Gets Minnesota House Look

ST. PAUL  (AP) - The proposal to allow casino-style gambling at Minnesota horse-racing tracks is getting a look at a Capitol hearing.

The proposal to authorize the so-called racinos has percolated at the Legislature for years but been thwarted by opposition from tribal casino interests and gambling opponents. Several scheduled hearings on the issue in recent weeks have been canceled at the last minute.

The House Jobs and Economic Development Committee is scheduled to debate the proposal Thursday morning. Supporters say allowing slot machines at Canterbury Park in Shakopee and Running Aces in Columbus, and potentially other sites in the future, could raise $250 million for job-creation initiatives in the next two years.

Gov. Mark Dayton has indicated he might be willing to support the racino proposal or other expansions of gambling.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)