In the state of Kentucky, gamblers must look elsewhere when it comes to casino gaming. The state does not offer casinos currently and efforts in the past to see gaming facilities created have failed to gain any traction. The state does offer horse racing, but is one of ten in the US that does not offer some form of casino gaming. Just recently, one state senator decided to pre-file a measure to hopefully get the ball rolling in 2018 for casinos to come to the state.
In speaking with WCPO Cincinnati, Representative Dennis Keene, stated that a pre-filed a casino bill for next year would allow as many as four casinos to be created in the state. Horse racing is already on offer and Keene feels that the tracks and casinos that could be established would be great options if sports betting were to come to fruition in the state.
Kentucky To See Legislation Pass To Construct Casinos
Keene feels that now is the time for Kentucky to finally see legislation pass to construct casinos in the state. The ‘atmosphere is more receptive right now’, according to Keene. Currently, sports betting could be on the table by next year if the United States Supreme Court decides to rule in favor of New Jersey in the Christie vs. NCAA case. The legality of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 is up for debate and states in the US could soon see sports betting a viable option is the court agrees with NJ.
On top of sports betting being discussed, Pennsylvania recently legalized online gambling and other states are considering getting in on the action as well. It seems the climate is ripe for gambling expansion in several areas and Kentucky might finally be able to have a chance to see casino legislation come to fruition.
As we enter a New Year, it will be interesting to see if Kentucky will move forward with the legislation by Keene and if the measure can gain enough support to become law.
