Replayed horse racing measure stalls

Senators declined to pass a measure April 3 intended to pave the way for wagering on replayed horse races in Nebraska. The proposal is a carry-over measure that was introduced and advanced from general file last session.

LR41CA, introduced by Omaha Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh, would place a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2014 general election ballot regarding historic horse racing. If approved by voters, the amendment would allow wagering on the results of live, replayed or delayed horse races at licensed racetracks where live racing occurs by a pari-mutuel method.

If voters approved the measure, proceeds from historic horse racing would be allocated as follows:
• 49 percent for elementary and secondary education;
• 49 percent to reduce property taxes; and
• 2 percent to the Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund.

Senators voted 28-19 on the measure, two votes short of the number needed to approve a proposed constitutional amendment. A Lautenbaugh motion to reconsider that vote is pending.