Horse racing to get a look from lawmakers

ATLANTA -- Georgia voters may get the chance next year to allow wagering on horse racing, a move that some worry could open the door to casino gambling.

Led by state Rep. Harry Geisinger, a Republican from Roswell, a study committee on pari-mutuel betting on horse racing holding meetings across the state will make recommendations to the legislature by the end of the year.

Advocates testified before the panel Monday that proceeds could be funneled into the coffers of the state's HOPE Scholarship and prekindergarten programs, which were cut this year because of budget problems.

But they could have an uphill battle as conservatives balk at adding more gambling in Georgia, particularly games that could cut into the state's lottery revenue going directly to educational programs. And some state lawmakers point to states like Kentucky and Indiana, where race tracks are trying to add casinos to help boost revenue.

"If Kentucky of all places is having problems, it concerns me a little bit when we start looking at the state of Georgia on this issue," said Rep. Tim Bearden, a Republican from Villa Rica who is on the study committee. "Are we going to be sitting back in here to beg casinos to come in this state to prop up the horse racing industry?"

Horse racing advocates say the industry could raise millions in tourism revenue for the state and create new jobs in breeding and training, as well as equine medical care. The horse racing industry generates $26 billion annually in t

Comment on "Horse racing to get a look from lawmakers"