LJWorld.com / Lawmaker urges limit to expanded gambling plan

Archive for Tuesday, October 7, 2003

By John Milburn - Associated Press Writer

October 7, 2003

Topeka — A state legislator told the governor's gambling committee Monday that any attempt to expand gambling in Kansas must be limited and be presented by a unified front to stand any chance of winning legislative approval.

Rep. Kenny Wilk, R-Lansing, told the 15-member committee that during his 11 years in the Legislature, few major policy measures have been approved without clear, careful crafting by legislators and supporters.

"I really think you need solid legislation from Day One," Wilk said.

Showing unity has been the bane of supporters who have sought to expand gambling in Kansas over the past two decades. Infighting among horse and dog breeders, track owners and other interested parties have prevented agreement on where gambling would expand.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, a supporter of expanding gambling, formed the committee in August to attempt to iron out those differences and take the pulse of residents who might support slot machines or full Las Vegas-style casinos in Kansas.

One more public meeting is scheduled for Nov. 10 in Junction City. Afterward, the committee plans to deliberate and make a recommendation to Sebelius by the end of the year.

The committee heard presentations Monday from several American Indian tribes, including the Wyandotte, Delaware, Sac and Fox and Kickapoo, as well as officials from The Woodlands dog and horse track in Kansas City, Kan., and backers of a proposed River Falls casino on the north bank of the Kansas River in Wyandotte County. Some of the proposals were made to the Legislature during its session this year.

Former Sen. Ben Vidricksen, of Salina, a committee member, asked Wilk whether a bill that was narrowly focused, such as slot machines at the pari-mutuel race tracks, would have a better chance at succeeding. Vidricksen said the law could be amended in future years to add more means of gambling.

"It's just a thought," he said.