Small Town News

Senate to vote on table games Jan. 28

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The state Senate is expected to vote Thursday, Jan. 28, on whether Delaware should allow table games. The measure allowing table games at the state's three existing racinos passed in the House Thursday, Jan. 21.

If the Senate also OKs the measure, blackjack and roulette games could be up and running within months.

House Majority Leader Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth Beach, introduced House Bill 310 Jan. 15; the House passed the measure 27-5. Schwartzkopf fast-tracked the bill in an effort to bring $50 million to the state, which still faces at least a $300 million budget deficit "Although I can't speak for the Senate, my understanding is it will be discussed in committee on Wednesday. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, it should be voted on Thursday," said Schwartzkopf. "We're in a race with Pennsylvania and very much more behind the eight ball than Pennsylvania"

Sen. George Bunting, D-Bethany Beach, said he has trouble with the process. "At this point, I would vote no. Philosophically, I have a big problem with balancing the state budget on gambling," said Bunting. Still, he said there's probably enough votes in the Senate to move the bill to the governor's desk for his signature.

Sen Joe Booth, R-Georgetown, said he would oppose table games. Booth called the process secretive and asked if it might be somehow tied to backroom negotiations to get new venues approved.

The Delaware Building and Construction Trades Council, which represents state construction workers, is planning a noon rally at Legislative Mall in Dover Tuesday, Jan. 26. The union plans to express to lawmakers the importance of creating jobs and to also support additional racinos in Delaware.

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