House opens debate on ‘instant racing’ repeal

The House has opened its debate on SB 1011, the bill to repeal authorization for “historical horse racing” in Idaho, which led to the installation slot machine-like “instant racing” terminals at three locations around the state. “Two years ago, the race horse people came to us and said that they were involved in a dying industry and they needed help,” Rep. Ken Andrus, R-Lava Hot Springs, told the House. “We are here today because it has gone a direction that we did not intend to go.”

He said he went to Les Bois Park and tried out the machines. “I put the money in,” he said. “I saw some things before pushing a button – I didn’t see any horses.” He said, “What we passed in legislation is not what we have today.”