Otter Vetoes Gaming Bill

The wait is over Governor Otter has vetoed SB 1011 citing a need to create a gaming commission and stating that the legislature could still take action to save a beleaguered industry in a letter to Lt. Governor Brad Little.

Otter said the industry moved too quickly in its attempt to get expand horse racing in Idaho.  He calls on regulating horse racing rather than eliminating it.  The governor did write about the dangers of gambling being expanded in Idaho.

The move will certainly test the strength of the governor newly into his third consecutive term.  Legislators could move to override his veto and with enough votes could make it happen.  If the veto is overridden, it could limit the governor's effectiveness for the next four years.

The future of the horse racing industry is now in the hands of the Idaho Legislature.

Here is a link to the complete letter here.