Will horse race gambling be legalized in Georgia?

[Hot_Mike]

Are you worried about the lack of jobs for Georgians? Do you appreciate the wonderful quality of life we enjoy in our rural counties?
There's a new bill in the State House that could make an important difference. HR1177 is the first step in bringing horse racing to Georgia.
Experts say that seven jobs are created for every racing horse - that could mean nearly 20,000 jobs for Georgians! Some of the jobs are obvious - trainers, jockeys, grooms. But think of all the collateral jobs that will be created in accounting, advertising and marketing, hospitality and construction, for example, plus all the new horse farms that will be established - supporting current landowners, barn and fence builders, veterinarians and farriers.

[Hot_Mike]

There are significant economic benefits associated with horses and horse racing in Georgia. Horses represent almost thirty percent of the total livestock value in Georgia. In the 2004 Farm-Gate Value Report, horses ranked as the sixth largest agricultural commodity trailing only broilers, cotton, timber, beef, and eggs. According to the University of Georgia's Agriculture Business Department, Georgia is the third largest horse state. The good news is an Equine Commodity Commission Bill is now being considered. What benefits would the State of Georgia gain from horseracing? They include:

Enhancing agribusiness, breeding, and racing at Georgia's race tracks
Providing economic investment
Increasing revenues paid to city, county, and state government
Creation of jobs
Expanding area tourism
Providing property tax relief to Georgia citizens

[neil0311]

Originally Posted by johnatl

I'd vote for it. Horse racing could be a great new industry for the State, imo. I personally have no issue with gambling, whether it be the Lottery or the ponies.

I'd rather see casino gambling than racing horse or dogs. You can't abuse a slot machine, and it's not dependent on weather.

[Hot_Mike]

I think these racinos have slot machines in them.