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Tim Pugmire
St. Paul, Minn.

Lawmakers looking at racetrack slot money as new revenue source

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Two DFL legislators say they'll lead the latest effort to put slot machines at Minnesota horse racing tracks.

Rep. Al Juhnke of Willmar and and Senator Dan Sparks of Austin unveiled a racino bill Tuesday that they say will provide the state $125 million a year.

The state's share of the revenue would be divided among the general fund, agriculture programs, early childhood education, bioscience technology and athletic facilities. Juhnke said the latter category could include a new Vikings stadium.

"In this economic climate we have very few options, and this is a real option for a piece of that puzzle if the Legislature chooses to go that route," Juhnke said. "So it is there. We're certainly not pushing this as a Vikings stadium, but we're here to say we'll partner with anyone who want to become a piece of this legislation."

Juhnke said there's bipartisan interest in a racino bill this session. But DFL leaders, as well as Gov. Pawlenty, have signaled an expansion of gambling would face a tough road.