A Bullitt County Republican lawmaker has introduced legislation that
would expand legalized gambling in Kentucky.
Rep. Thomas Huff, R-Shepherdsville filed a measure that would
legalize land-based and riverboat casinos and place the Kentucky
Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation in charge of licensing and
regulating casino gaming and fantasy sports contests.
Under this measure, counties would
have the authority to approve the operation of casino gaming through
a local option election. A county would be eligible to conduct a
local option election if its population exceeds 30,000. Smaller
counties that do not meet the 30,000-person threshold may join with
adjoining counties to meet population eligibility requirements, with
an exception for smaller counties that have a licensed racing
association.
Additionally, the county legislative
body must pass an ordinance for an election to be held, or a petition
for an election must be signed by 25 percent of constitutionally
qualified voters in the county from the last regular election. Once
approved by the county, the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming
Corporation will solicit bids for licensing casino gaming in the
county. A 21 percent tax on casino revenue would be imposed, along
with a $3 admissions fee for each person admitted to the casino each
day.
Key Provisions:
- Legalization of Casinos: The bill seeks to legalize both land-based and riverboat casinos within the state.
- Regulatory Authority: The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation would be given the responsibility of licensing and regulating casino gaming and fantasy sports contests.
- Local Control:
- Counties with a population exceeding 30,000 would have the power to approve casino operations through a local option election.
- Smaller counties could potentially join with neighboring counties to meet the population requirement.
- An exception is provided for smaller counties with existing licensed racing associations.
- Election Procedures:
- The county legislative body would need to pass an ordinance to initiate an election.
- Alternatively, an election could be triggered by a petition signed by 25% of registered voters in the county.
- Licensing Process: Following local approval, the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation would solicit bids for casino licenses.
- Taxation: The bill proposes a 21% tax on casino revenue, along with a $3 daily admission fee per person.
Potential Impact:
- Economic Growth: Proponents argue that legalized casinos could generate significant revenue for the state, create jobs, and boost tourism.
- Social Concerns: Opponents may raise concerns about potential social issues associated with gambling, such as addiction and crime.
- Local Impacts: The bill’s impact would vary significantly depending on local community support and the economic and social conditions within each county.