Legalized sports wagering is just getting underway across Kentucky. The leader of one house of the Kentucky General Assembly says it’s an issue lawmakers could revisit in the years ahead.
Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers has called sports wagering an appetizer or dessert regarding what entertainment dollars are spent on. Brick and mortar sports bets are being taken now with online betting coming within two weeks. Although, just starting, Stivers said it’s possible a modification of the statute could take place.
“I don’t know but it wouldn’t surprise me. Any piece of major legislation always has to have some revisits to it. So, there may be the necessity, but not necessarily,” said Stivers.
Stivers noted there’s likely to be an uptick early on in sports wagering, but then some leveling off. The GOP leader added sports betting in Kentucky will probably not be a big revenue generator, but popular with certain people who want to bet on sporting contests.
Kentucky’s governor’s race is a centerpiece of discussion among those interested in politics. That would include a number of people serving in the State General Assembly. But Stivers said the legislative approach will not change, no matter if it’s a second term for Democrat Andy Beshear or a first term for Republican Daniel Cameron.
“We’re gonna do what we’re gonna do, no matter who the governor is. We’re gonna come back with what we think is a fiscally responsible budget that stimulates the economy, grows jobs, and attracts people to come here and keeps people staying here in Kentucky.”
Stivers added he thinks his Republican-controlled chamber has shown it’s, quote, “a pretty independent lot whether there’s a Republican or a Democrat in the governor’s office.” The start of the 2024 General Assembly session is less than four months away.
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