RICHMOND, Va. (AP) – State lawmakers are warming up to the idea of allowing more gambling in Virginia and may permit new betting machines at a once-popular horse racetrack.
The General Assembly is advancing legislation to allow historical race terminals at Colonial Downs, a recently shuttered horse track about 30 miles outside of Richmond.
The machines let people bet on past horse races without knowing which horse they are betting on. The state House has already approved the measure.
Supporters say the legislation will help revive the state’s once-thriving equine industry.
Opponents say it’s a way for gambling interests to get a toehold that could lead to casinos like in other states.
Copyright 2018 The Associated Press.
