Podcast: Operators of instant racing machines respond to court decision
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IDAHO FALLS – The Idaho State Supreme Court has ruled instant horse racing is illegal in Idaho.
The veto of a bill outlawing instant horse racing in Idaho isn’t valid, the court said. Although Idaho Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter vetoed the bill, he did so after the five-day deadline, and then returned it to the Senate.
“This court has insisted upon strict adherence to the procedures outlined in our constitution for enacting laws and in exercising the veto power,” Justice Roger Burdick wrote in the unanimous decision published Thursday, Sept. 10.
As a result, the slot-like gaming machines being used at three locations around the state have had to be shut down.
On this #PoliticalPodcast, Mark Richardson talked with Melissa Bernard with the Double Down Betting Sports Bar in Idaho Falls.
Bernard discusses how they never imagined, after passing a bill allowing the instant racing machines, the state government would turn around and reverse its decision. She said the decision could be devastating.
State Rep. Jeff Thompson gives the reasons behind the Legislature’s original bill, including the state constitution and the limits the state has on gambling.