State Rep. Michael Beard Talks Racino Odds

With the Minnesota legislative session looming, some local Republicans plan to push a Racino bill, and they say this time, it has a shot of winning the support it needs to become a reality.

Rep. Michael Beard, R-Shakopee, told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS that having Sen. Dave Senjem, R-Rochester, and Sen. Claire Robling, R-Jordan, in leadership positions (Senjem is now majority leader while Robling is the new assistant majority leader) will give "more muscle" to the idea of Racino gaming and will probably make a difference in determining its survival in the legislative session which starts Jan. 24. It could also potentially gain support as a source of revenue in building a new Vikings football stadium.

If Racino gaming legislation passes, approximately 4,000 slot machines could be installed at  and at Running Aces Harness Park in Columbus, Minn. But, even if the Racino bill were to pass the Senate, the House and Gov. Mark Dayton would have to sign off on it to make it happen.

Racino gaming is currently legal in 12 states and in Canada, according to Racino Now, a non-profit organization advocating for racino legislation to pass in Minnesota. They also say recent studies estimate Racinos could generate $125 million in new revenue for the state each year.

For the entire KSTP story, click here.