Though the blame game continues over the state’s budget crisis, one Louisiana lawmaker is betting increased gambling could help pull state government out of the red, KSLA-TV reports.
State Sen. Danny Martiny, R-Metairie, has introduced two bills that would allow statewide referendums on expanding Louisiana gaming laws to include internet and sports gambling.
Senate Bill 322 would allow popular internet gaming websites to be regulated and legal. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 266 would enable betting on sporting events at locations under the umbrella of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board
Martiny admits SB322 is unlikely to pass, but he is optimistic about SB266.
“I think there is a good chance that we would consider sports book betting because I’m going to tell you Beau Rivage and all those Mississippi casinos—they already approved it and that will cut into the New Orleans market,” Martiny says. “Arkansas is also looking to approve the same and cut into the Shreveport market.”
