Replayed horse racing measure approved

Following a motion to reconsider a final reading vote taken last week, senators voted April 7 to pass a measure intended to pave the way for wagering on replayed horse races in Nebraska.

The measure failed April 3 on a 28-18 vote and introducer Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh of Omaha filed a motion to reconsider that vote. He said it is important for lawmakers to give the horse racing industry one last chance to overcome “arcane” constitutional constraints.

“Please don’t turn your back on these people,” Lautenbaugh said. “Please don’t turn your back on these jobs.”

LR41CA will place a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2014 general election ballot regarding historic horse racing. If approved by voters, the amendment will 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 approve the measure, proceeds from historic horse racing will 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 32-13 to reconsider the earlier vote and 30-17 to pass the measure. Thirty votes are needed to pass a proposed constitutional amendment.