Governor Jindal Waffles On Anti-Gambling Pledge

http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/05/horse_racing_wagering_bill_cle.htmlHorse racing wagering bill clears House; Gov. Bobby Jindal not opposedPublished: Friday, May 20, 2011, 11:30 AMUpdated: Friday, May 20, 2011, 5:00 PMBy Bill Barrow, The Times-Picayune The Times-Picayune
Gov. Bobby Jindal has said since he was a candidate that he opposes any policy that expands gambling. Jindal spokesman Kyle Plotkin said last week that the governor's philosophy does not require him "at this time" to oppose a Louisiana House bill that would add to gamblers' options at Louisiana horse tracks outside New Orleans.Current law restricts "account wagering" -- allowing bettors to wager on races at other tracks around the country -- to the city of New Orleans, home to the Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots. House Bill 420 by Rep. Ledricka Thierry, D-Opelousas, would delete the restriction, extending account-wagering eligibility to any live horse racing facility licensed by the Louisiana State Racing Commission.The House approved the bill 61-30 this week. The measure awaits action in the Senate Judiciary B Committee. Lawmakers said during floor debate that the Family Forum, which often includes gambling measures on its annual published assessments of legislators, is officially neutral on the measure.